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In its first Threads case, Meta’s Oversight Board asked for clarity on death threats

Meta’s Oversight Board has weighed in on its first Threads case and reversed the company’s initial decision and first appeal. Regarding a post using a phrase that translates to “drop dead / die” in English, the board determined the phrase was used figuratively.

The case was sparked by a Threads post showing a news article about Kishida and his reaction to his political party’s(ahem) “fundraising irregularities.” The caption criticized the Prime Minister, accusing him of tax evasion. The user’s reply demanded an explanation from the government leader and, calling him a tax evader, used the phrase “死ね,” or “drop dead / die.” The post also included “hah” and derogatory language about people who wear glasses. Meta’s Oversight Board added that the Violence and Incitement policy includes a rule prohibiting the phrase “death to” against “high-risk persons” isn’t clear enough.

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