To improve its security, Twitter has introduced new measures that will require Tor users to register their phone number when signing-up on the microblogging site.
Twitter's move comes after its Feb. 26 announcement, where it revealed that it would start tracking trolls via their mobile number so as to curtail harassment incidents and extend its security measures.
Per this system, trolls would not be able to open multiple Twitter accounts as they will be identified from their number, helping the site restrict spiteful behavior. Previously, even if Twitter shut down a harasser's account they could open a new one and hound their victim via the new account.
Now as part of its effort to beef up security and address concerns, Twitter has now made it necessary for users deploying Tor, the anonymous web browser, to give their mobile number when signing-up to Twitter.
While Twitter does not insist that users tie-in their account with a phone number (it is optional), the company's latest security measure - per a TechCrunch report - will deploy "short-term suspensions" to access the numbers of those who are constantly trolling.
So what's the purpose of this system you wonder? Twitter believes that in this manner it can find some recognizing factor, which can be deployed to trace the serial offenders in the event they sign-up for a new account - which is pretty common for such individuals.
However, post the change in measures, individuals signing-up via Tor will be required to input their phone number, which will be added to the microblogging site's database instantly.
The new Twitter development was first flagged by user Jonathan Zdziarski.
It looks like Twitter is locking down Tor and requiring a phone number to verify new accounts. pic.twitter.com/qvZbmjHrGV
— Jonathan Zdziarski (@JZdziarski) March 3, 2015
So now, users who attempt to open a new account on Twitter via Google Chrome for instance simply need to provide an email address. If users deploy Tor for the same purpose, then they should be prepared to submit their phone numbers where they will receive the SMS verification.
Whether Twitter is looking to expand this security process or will restrict it to Tor alone to counter trolling remains to be seen.
