Growing Backlash Against Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg Drives Users Away from X and Instagram

The dominance of social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) has long been a hallmark of modern digital communication.

However, a growing number of young users are now turning their backs on these platforms, driven in part by controversial actions and statements made by their respective owners, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. 

With many citing disillusionment over the management of these platforms, a significant exodus is occurring, leaving both billionaires facing new challenges in maintaining their digital empires.

Since Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter in 2022, the platform, now rebranded as X, has experienced significant transformations, many of which have not been well-received by long-time users.

Musk’s controversial comments, particularly his infamous “Nazi salute” joke at a Trump inauguration event, have led to widespread dissatisfaction among users. These incidents, along with other actions that many deem irresponsible, have prompted many users, especially younger ones, to reconsider their involvement with the platform.

Quinn, a 22-year-old from Minnesota, shared his decision to delete his X account in January, expressing his disgust after Musk joked about the Nazi accusations against him following his appearance at the inauguration. "I was disgusted by X for a while, but I stayed to monitor the content circulating," Quinn told Teen Vogue.

"When Elon got away with the fascist salute without any consequences, that’s when I knew I needed to take real action to get people off his platform. I feel sick thinking about him profiting off such vile hatred."

Quinn’s frustration reflects a broader sentiment among many young users who feel that the platform has become a breeding ground for controversial, and often toxic, content.

Musk’s leadership and his penchant for making controversial statements have alienated users who once valued the platform for its role in facilitating free speech and real-time news.

A report from The Guardian highlighted that between October and December 2024, approximately 2.7 million active users in the United States abandoned X.

This marked a noticeable decline in the platform’s user base, signaling that the impact of Musk’s leadership and the platform's shift toward less moderation has driven a sizable number of users away.

While Musk’s controversies have sparked a departure from X, Mark Zuckerberg has also faced his share of backlash, particularly with regard to the management of Facebook and Instagram.

Both platforms, owned by Zuckerberg’s Meta, have come under fire for their handling of misinformation, data privacy issues, and lack of transparency regarding content moderation.

The most recent backlash has been fueled by Zuckerberg’s announcement of a new fact-checking policy on Instagram and Facebook. Many users, particularly those under 30, have expressed dissatisfaction with the platforms’ failure to effectively combat misinformation, especially during critical moments like elections and global health crises. As a result, some have decided to leave the platforms altogether.

Rae, a 24-year-old user, joined the growing ranks of people disconnecting from Facebook and Instagram, citing concerns over Meta's data practices and the lack of accountability regarding misinformation.

"I kept my [Facebook] account to follow local news," Rae explained. "But the complete lack of oversight and the abuse of our data made me permanently log off."

Rae’s decision to leave the platforms was part of a larger movement called the "Lights Out Meta" boycott. This week-long boycott gained significant attention and saw many users opting to permanently delete their accounts.

For many young users, this was a symbolic act of resistance against a platform that they felt had lost touch with its initial mission of connecting people in a meaningful and secure way.

The departure of millions of young users from X and Instagram marks a significant shift in the social media landscape.

These platforms, once seen as the epitome of digital communication, are now facing questions about their future in a world where users are increasingly concerned about their privacy, the spread of misinformation, and the ethical practices of their owners.

For Musk, the loss of millions of users presents a serious challenge to X’s long-term sustainability.

 As the platform increasingly caters to political and fringe groups, it risks alienating a larger portion of its user base. Musk’s handling of controversial issues, from his support of free speech to his dismissal of content moderation policies, has turned X into a platform that some users view as unsafe or unsuitable for everyday communication.

Similarly, Zuckerberg faces a difficult situation with Instagram and Facebook. As the owner of multiple social media platforms, Zuckerberg has had to navigate increasing scrutiny over Meta’s data practices, which have led to concerns over user privacy and safety.

In particular, Meta’s failure to adequately combat misinformation, especially in politically sensitive areas, has led many to reconsider their use of the platforms.

As more users turn away from X and Instagram, there is growing interest in alternatives that prioritize user privacy, accountability, and ethical practices.

Platforms like Mastodon, Threads, and even newer decentralized networks are gaining traction, offering users the opportunity to connect without the same concerns about privacy violations and the spread of harmful content.

This shift marks a turning point for social media, as younger users, in particular, are starting to demand more from the platforms they use. They are looking for spaces that value their privacy, respect their data, and provide a healthier online environment.

The growing trend of boycotts and account deletions is an indication that the next generation of digital citizens is no longer willing to tolerate unethical practices in exchange for connectivity.

The departure of young users from X and Instagram highlights a critical moment in the evolution of social media. Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, two of the most influential figures in the industry, are facing increasing pressure from their user bases, who are no longer willing to overlook the ethical issues that have plagued their platforms.

As users continue to vote with their accounts, it remains to be seen whether X and Instagram can adapt to the changing landscape of digital communication or if they will be left behind by a new generation of users demanding more from their online experiences.