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Protecting Yourself Online Following Recent Changes at Twitter

Recent events at Twitter have led to changes that may leave users more exposed to harm on the platform.

Published: 17 November 2022 | 1:32 PM Updated: 18 November 2022 | 9:58 AM
Young Black musician scrolling on their phone in a library
With a visible online presence part of many musicians’ careers, it is important to take steps to protect yourself online. Photo: © Guille Faingold | Stocksy United

You may have seen news coverage of recent changes at Twitter that may leave users more exposed to harm. These include the firing of over half of Twitter’s staff including the head of safety and integrity, and the human rights team. It also includes the reappearance of individuals and groups previously banned on the platform.

With a visible online presence part of many musicians’ careers, it is important to take basic steps to protect yourself online.

If you experience online harassment and abuse:

Sources of support

Help Musicians runs a free, 24/7, confidential helpline for anyone who experiences bullying and harassment in the industry.

There are also many organisations providing specialist mental health and wellbeing support for musicians and marginalised communities. Take a look at our full list of organisations that may be particularly useful.

If you experience sexual harassment online, you can also report this to the MU’s Safe Space service.

Learn more about discrimination and harassment, and find a list of useful resources to protect yourself and support others online and in the workplace, in the union’s Discrimination and Harassment advice hub.

Remember your commitment as an MU member

Every MU member signs up to the MU’s Rules when they join. That includes a commitment “to oppose actively all forms of harassment, prejudice and unfair discrimination whether on the grounds of sex, race, ethnic or national origin, religion, colour, class, caring responsibilities, marital status, sexuality, disability, age, or other status or personal characteristic” in the MU’s objects (goals / purpose).

Read the rules

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

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