Clubhouse Joins Other Social Media Platforms To Protect Users' Data In Afghanistan

Clubhouse allows users to use pseudonyms. (photo: prihivi rajan/unsplash)

JAKARTA - Social audio app Clubhouse has joined other social platforms in taking steps to protect the privacy and security of its users in Afghanistan. Earlier this week, the platform reset tens of thousands of Afghan users' bios and photos, making their accounts harder to find in searches.

A Clubhouse spokesperson said the action does not affect the user's followers, and all changes can be undone if the user wishes.

A message form @Clubhouse to #Afghanistan’s users. pic.twitter.com/CpS4iz0L1J

— Zaki Daryabi (@ZDaryabi) August 19, 2021

Clubhouse has also reminded its users in Afghanistan that they allow pseudonyms for human rights or safety purposes. The company consulted with experts on freedom of expression and violent extremism to help structure its approach, the spokesperson said.

As the Taliban have regained control of the country, many people in Afghanistan have tried to remove photos from their social media accounts and phones that could show ties to the West or the former Afghan government.

Despite bans on many social platforms, the Taliban has been able to push its message on social media, as The Washington Post writes, sophisticated in social media tactics in an attempt to change its image.

On Thursday, August 19, Facebook said it had added security measures for users in Afghanistan, including hiding "friends" lists and adding a tool to quickly lock accounts.