Parler Threatened to be Removed by Apple and Google

Published by Ushna Arif Sunday, January 10, 2021

 

Parler is a social networking app that was introduced as a less moderated and more conservative-friendly alternative to Facebook and Twitter. Google and Apple were compelled to deplatform the app after receiving complaints about Parler for its content being “objectionable”, more specifically that the app was used to plan, coordinate, and facilitate the illegal activities in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021 that led to loss of life, numerous injuries, and the destruction of property, among other illegal and violent activities.

 

Apple warned Parler to put a moderation platform into place within 24 hours, or else the app would be removed from the App Store. Apple and Google chose to act against Parler after being pressurized by an activist organization called Sleeping Giants in response to the violent content circulating across the platform.

Yesterday, we asked @AppStore and @GooglePlay to enforce their own Terms of Service on Parler based on the sheer number of violent threats on the platform with #PullParler.

Look at the VERY CLEAR terms set by these two app stores below: https://t.co/SpPuSCUxy4

— Sleeping Giants (@slpng_giants) January 8, 2021

 

CEO of Parler John Matze commented on the January 6 situation saying that that neither he nor the platform feels responsible for the content, considering that they are a “neutral town square that just adheres to the law.”

 

It was noticed that the campaign challenging President Trump’s loss gained momentum particularly among Parler users and dozens of posts encouraging violence on Parler were circulated, potentially leading up to the attack on the Capitol, according to analysts.

 

After Twitter and Facebook temporary banned Trump’s accounts, due to his recent statements potentially provoking violence, Matze criticized the companies for their actions, saying that “It’s clear that Facebook and Twitter believe the ends justify the means. They believe the American people are weak.”

 

“Parler is not an arbiter of truth. We believe in you. We believe you are wise enough to decide for yourself and trust that given access to all information we can self-govern,” said Matze.