![]() The user is a self-described Trump supporter and a California resident, according to the Twitter profile.Īttempts to reach the account user were unsuccessful Monday. Whoever's behind the account posted a new profile picture, replacing a stock photo of a woman in business attire with a photo of stilettos. The account's handle changed, too, from Surfermom77 to LovelyGigi33. Another clue? Profile photos were taken from stock photography galleries.įollowing Trump's retweet, the name on the profile changed from Sophia to Emma, then Leona and then to Gigi. Surfermom77 tweets more than most human users - 72 times a day on average for more than six years. Social media analysts immediately raised questions about Surfermom77, noting that the account bore the hallmarks of a social media bot, an automated program that sometimes spread information online while appearing like a human. The Associated Press typically does not reveal the identity of whistleblowers. The actual whistleblower's identity has not been released or verified. Trump's retweet marks the first time he has directly sent the alleged name into the Twitter feed of his 68 million followers. "The platforms that allow that policy need to be more diligent in making sure it's not being exploited."įor months Trump supporters and some conservative news outlets have published what they claim to be details about the whistleblower, including the person's name and career history. "It's certainly something we know bad actors exploit as well," said Cindy Otis, a disinformation expert and former CIA analyst. Twitter's rules permit bots and anonymous users as long as they refrain from online manipulation, racist imagery, violent threats or impersonation. When those tweets get to the president, they can quickly be retweeted to millions. While anonymity on Twitter allows people in oppressive communities to speak online freely, it can also allow people to harass others or spread bogus claims without accountability. The account highlights how the internet has given everyday Americans - and those posing as them - a direct line of communication to the president, even if people don't always know who they are. Critics worry the move could invite retaliation against the individual. ![]() Just before midnight Friday, Donald Trump retweeted a tweet from the user, then going by Surfermom77, that included the alleged name of the anonymous whistleblower whose complaint ultimately led to Trump's impeachment by the House. But bot or not, the account has gotten the attention of the U.S. There's been speculation about whether this person is really a woman - or even human. ![]() The occupation is listed at various times as teacher, historian, documentary writer and model. The Twitter user goes by Gigi, though sometimes Sophia, Emma or Leona.
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