X, the social media platform spearheaded by Elon Musk, has revealed plans to phase out the Twitter.com domain effective Nov. 10. This shift will leave most users unaffected, but a select group relying on specific authentication methods risks account lockouts if prompt action is not taken.
If you’re a user who employs hardware security keys (like Yubikeys) or passkeys for two-factor authentication, you should migrate your credentials to the X.com domain by the cutoff date of Nov. 10, the X Safety account urged in a recent advisory. Failure to do so could result in temporary account suspension.
X emphasised that this update stems from no security issues and solely affects YubiKeys and passkeys. “Security keys enrolled as a 2FA method are currently tied to the twitter[.]com domain. Re-enrolling your security key will associate them with x[.]com, allowing us to retire the Twitter domain,” the post explained.
Post-deadline, if re-enrolment hasn’t occurred, accounts will be inaccessible until users either re-register the key, opt for an alternative 2FA option, or turn off 2FA entirely — though X advises keeping 2FA active for enhanced protection.
Two-factor authentication adds a critical layer of protection beyond passwords, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorised access by cybercriminals.
How To Avoid Getting Locked Out Of Your Twitter Account
If you use a hardware key or passkey for 2FA and wish to avoid getting locked out of your Twitter account, take the following steps:
1. Open the X app or visit X.com.
2. Go to Settings > Privacy > Security.
3. Select Account access > Security > Two-factor authentication.
4. Re-enrol or add your existing passkey.
If locked out of your account, you can regain access by re-registering your security key, choosing another 2FA option, or disabling 2FA.
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