X users rake in thousands by spreading election misinformation and AI-generated content
X users are reportedly making substantial earnings from sharing US election misinformation, AI-generated images, and unsubstantiated conspiracy theories. Some claim they’re pocketing “thousands of dollars” from the platform, owned by Elon Musk. BBC investigations reveal networks of users resharing each other’s posts—including true, false, and AI-fabricated content—to increase engagement, which translates to more revenue. These users coordinate through group chats and forums to boost each other’s reach, with some of their earnings reportedly ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars per month.
These networks support a variety of political agendas, with some favoring figures like Donald Trump, others Kamala Harris, and a few remaining independent. Though unofficial, several profiles have caught the attention of US politicians, including congressional candidates seeking support online. On October 9, X changed its monetization structure, basing payouts on engagement from premium users—likes, comments, and shares—rather than the number of ads beneath posts. While many social platforms allow user monetization, X’s lack of specific misinformation guidelines raises questions. Without stringent misinformation policies, some wonder if X incentivizes provocative, unchecked claims, especially given the politically charged environment ahead of the US election.
The BBC assessed reported earnings from users and found them consistent with typical revenue metrics tied to engagement, views, and followers. Among the misleading content circulated were debunked claims of election fraud and extreme, unsubstantiated accusations targeting candidates. Some posts even made their way to larger platforms like Facebook and TikTok, amplifying reach. For instance, an X user with a modest following created a doctored image suggesting Kamala Harris worked at McDonald’s as a young woman, which quickly spiraled into baseless claims that the Democratic Party was manipulating images of its candidates. Similarly, a conspiracy theory about an alleged assassination attempt on Donald Trump also gained traction across platforms.
One prominent content creator, who goes by “Freedom Uncut” or “Free,” offered insight into how these networks work. Operating from his “content creation lair” in Tampa, Florida, decked out in American flag-shaped fairy lights, Free spends up to 16 hours daily on X, interacting with a network of creators and sharing AI-generated images. Though he claims to be independent, he favors Trump over Harris. Due to previous threats, Free refrains from sharing his real identity and says his family’s personal information was exposed online, prompting him to protect his privacy. Over recent months, Free claims his posts have garnered 11 million views as he frequently shares election-related content. While he doesn’t consider himself one of the most extreme posters, his work exemplifies how misinformation spreads within these online networks. His case highlights how monetization policies on X may be encouraging users to share sensational content without regard for its accuracy.
