UpScrolled, a social network that surged in popularity after TikTok’s ownership change in the U.S., is now confronting a serious content moderation problem. The platform, which grew to over 2.5 million users in January, is facing user reports that it is not taking action against usernames and hashtags containing racial slurs and has been unable to properly moderate harmful content.
After receiving tips from users, TechCrunch confirmed the widespread use of racial slurs and hate speech within usernames on the app. Examples included usernames featuring the slurs themselves, slurs combined with other words, or multiple slurs in a single name. Other usernames contained explicit hate speech, such as “Glory to Hitler.”
When these slurs were reported to UpScrolled’s public email address, the company responded that it is actively reviewing and removing inappropriate content and working to expand its moderation capacity. The email advised against engaging with bad-faith actors while the situation is resolved. However, days after reporting, the accounts with the offensive usernames provided in screenshots remained active on the platform.
Further investigation found slurs and hate speech elsewhere in the app, including within hashtags and text accompanying photos or videos. Other harmful content available included text posts with racial slurs and hate speech, as well as photo and video content glorifying Hitler.
TechCrunch was not alone in identifying this issue. The ADL also published a blog post this month noting that UpScrolled was becoming a home for antisemitic and extremist content and designated foreign terrorist organizations.
UpScrolled was founded in 2025 and claims on its website to offer every voice “equal power.” The app has seen more than 4 million downloads on iOS and Android since June 2025, according to market intelligence provider Appfigures, a figure higher than the startup’s self-reported user count from last month.
The platform’s FAQ states that it does not “censor opinions,” but its policy is to restrict content involving illegal activity, hate speech, bullying, harassment, explicit nudity, unlicensed copyrighted material, or anything intended to cause harm. This guidance is similar to most modern social media platforms, but it is clear the company is struggling to enforce its own rules.
This is a battle social networks often face, especially those experiencing a large influx of new users in a short time. For instance, Bluesky faced similar issues with slurs in account usernames in July 2023.
Following TechCrunch’s initial inquiry, a response from UpScrolled’s press account directed attention to a new video from founder Issam Hijazi addressing the content moderation issues. In the video, he confirmed that users have been uploading harmful content that violates the platform’s terms of service and the company’s beliefs. Hijazi stated that the company is offering everyone the freedom to express opinions in a healthy and respectful digital environment. To achieve this, he said UpScrolled is rapidly expanding its content moderation team and upgrading its technology infrastructure to more effectively catch and remove harmful content.