A new frontier of cyber vigilantism? Reviewing the Black Twitter community in South Africa

Abstract

Black Twitter is known to bring to light pressing issues around the world, channel Black narratives, expose misconduct and mobilise social justice movements. With popular hashtags that shape contemporary political and social discourses, the site has encouraged racial debates, cancel culture and doxing activities. Using content analysis, the data examined includes Twitter/X posts and trends, hashtag movements, commentary articles and existing literature on cyber vigilantism. This article addresses a complex interplay of social and technological factors shaping this phenomenon and emphasises the need for greater awareness to mitigate the risks associated with cyber vigilantism. The article submits that cyber vigilantism awareness and prevention strategies will benefit the social and economic wellbeing of a hyper-connected society.