Twitch recently announced updates to its sexual harassment policy, aimed at making it easier to understand and enforce. The platform stated that while the policy itself remains largely unchanged, new clarifying language has been added to provide clearer boundaries on unacceptable behavior. Specifically, Twitch now prohibits unwanted comments regarding someone’s appearance or body, sexual requests or advances, sexual objectification, and negative statements related to perceived sexual behaviors. Additionally, the platform does not tolerate the recording or sharing of non-consensual intimate images or videos and may report such content to law enforcement.
The updated guidelines from Twitch have outlined a detailed list of behaviors that are considered inappropriate on the platform. By providing specific examples of unacceptable conduct, Twitch aims to give users a clear reference point for what is permissible in chat. This approach is a departure from the previous, broader ban on creepy behavior, and is intended to create a more transparent and enforceable policy.
In addition to updates to its sexual harassment policy, Twitch also announced improvements to its AutoMod moderation tools. The platform has introduced a new AutoMod category specifically designed to filter out chat messages that could be classified as sexual harassment. This new feature allows streamers to proactively block inappropriate comments before they appear in the chat, providing an additional layer of protection for users.
Streamers using AutoMod now have the ability to customize the tool’s strictness when filtering potentially problematic comments. Alongside their moderators, streamers can review held messages and decide how to address them. These new tools were rolled out recently, although they are currently only available in English. By empowering streamers with more control over their chat environment, Twitch hopes to create a safer and more welcoming space for all users.
Addressing a Widespread Issue
The updates to Twitch’s sexual harassment policy and AutoMod tools come at a time when online platforms are increasingly grappling with issues of harassment and abuse. Sexual harassment is unfortunately pervasive in online spaces, and Twitch is no exception. By taking proactive steps to clarify and enforce its policies, Twitch is working towards creating a more respectful and inclusive community for its users.
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