Report: Apple Tells Parler To Come Up With A Moderation Plan Or Be Kicked Off App Store

Topline

Right-wing social media app Parler has been suspended from the Google Play store until it comes up with a plan to moderate its content, while Apple has reportedly given the platform a 24-hour window to present its plan or it also faces a ban from the App store.

The “free speech” platform needs a moderation plan by Saturday or its off the App store, Apple … [+] reportedly said. (Photo by OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images)

AFP via Getty Images Key Facts

Google said in a statement that Parler must come up with a plan to moderate its content since “We’re aware of continued posting in the Parler app that seeks to incite ongoing violence in the U.S.

According to BuzzFeed News, Apple sent an email to Parler making the demand directly in response to the deadly rioting at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, claiming the attempted insurrection was organized and coordinated on Parler.

Parler CEO John Matze defended the company, responding on the Parler platform Friday by saying Facebook was actually used to organize insurrection.

Parler labels itself a “free speech platform,” and prides itself on a lack of moderation and fact-checking.

The platform has become a haven for Trump supporters and conspiracy theorists, who have flocked to Parler to spout unfounded claims that would have otherwise be flagged on more mainstream platforms like Facebook or Twitter.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Forbes.

Crucial Quote

“We have received numerous complaints regarding objectionable content in your Parler service, accusations that the Parler app was used to plan, coordinate, and facilitate the illegal activities in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021 that led (among other things) to loss of life, numerous injuries, and the destruction of property,” Apple said in the email to Parler, which was obtained by BuzzFeed News.

Key Background

Parler is among a litany of “alternative” social media sites that Trump supporters are latching onto after platforms like Facebook and Twitter started cracking down on false information the president and his supporters had been sharing. Far-right groups, such as the Proud Boys, regularly use Parler as a form of social media, and it has also become increasingly popular among Republican elected officials.

Tangent

President Donald Trump had his personal Twitter account permanently banned on Friday.

Further Reading

Apple Has Threatened To Ban Parler From The App Store (BuzzFeed News)

Parler, the “free speech” social network, explained (Vox)

Twitter Permanently Bans Trump (Forbes)