Public discussions on platforms like Twitter/X often rely on features like quote retweets, which let users reshare posts while adding their own commentary. While useful for debate, this can also spread misinformation, enable harassment, or twist the original poster's intent. Currently, users can disable standard retweets but have no way to prevent quote retweets—a gap that leaves content creators vulnerable to misuse.

Controlling How Posts Are Shared

One way to address this issue would be to introduce a feature allowing users to disable quote retweets for their posts, similar to existing controls for replies or standard retweets. This could be implemented as:

• A per-post toggle while composing a tweet
• A global account setting in privacy preferences

When enabled, the quote retweet option would appear unavailable to others. High-profile users—journalists, activists, or everyday people sharing sensitive content—could better control how their words are amplified without sacrificing engagement entirely, since standard retweets and replies would still work.

Why This Makes Sense for the Platform

Twitter/X already offers tools like "disable replies" and "disable retweets," making this a logical extension of existing privacy controls. Testing could begin with a small group (e.g., verified accounts) to assess impact before wider release. While skeptics might argue this could limit virality, keeping the feature optional ensures only those prioritizing control over reach would use it. For the platform, it could improve user retention—particularly among public figures who face disproportionate harassment—while maintaining the core functionality that drives engagement.

This approach wouldn't eliminate workarounds (like screenshotting tweets), but by making quote retweeting less convenient for misuse, it could still meaningfully improve discourse. Structuring it as part of a subscription service (like Twitter Blue) might also align with the platform's monetization goals while delivering user-requested functionality.