Threads’ New Hashless Tags: A Gateway for Silly Trolling

Threads’ New Hashless Tags: A Gateway for Silly Trolling

Threads, the Instagram offshoot, recently introduced searchable “topic tags” to enhance user experience. However, users quickly discovered that these tags can be used for a silly trolling prank. By inserting a deceptive “Show more” tag within a Threads post, innocent users unknowingly click on it and get redirected to the page associated with that tag, resembling the classic “Rick Rolling” phenomenon. This prank has been successful due to its replication of familiar UI elements and the confusion of unsuspecting users.

Improving Government Technology: Lessons from Boston

Improving Government Technology: Lessons from Boston

Boston is leading the way in improving government technology through user-centric design and in-house product managers who shape policies. The city has prioritized user experience research, allowing them to gather feedback and create better digital services, such as the Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Program (CHAMP). Massachusetts’s educated and well-resourced environment, along with close proximity to tech companies and researchers, has contributed to Boston’s progress. However, while Boston’s efforts are commendable, there is still work to be done to fix the broken relationship between technology and government.