Amazon-owned streaming platform Twitch has announced that it is further expanding its ban on livestreams featuring gambling content. This comes after the company implemented a new gambling policy in October last year, which initially banned four sites. Twitch’s decision to tighten the restrictions follows a controversy that erupted on the platform involving a streamer allegedly involved in scamming users and content creators for thousands of dollars to support a gambling addiction. Consequently, prominent streamers expressed their discontent with Twitch’s lenient policies regarding gambling streams, leading to increased pressure for change.
Targeting Unlicensed Gambling Sites
In response to the mounting pressure, Twitch made the choice to prohibit websites offering slots, roulettes, or dice games that are not licensed in the United States or in jurisdictions that provide adequate consumer protection. The two new additions to the ban are online casinos Blaze and Gamdom, both of which are currently not accessible in the U.S. However, users can still gain access to these sites by utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs) that mask their locations.
Twitch stated that its implementation of the gambling policy last year resulted in a significant drop of approximately 75% in gambling viewership. However, the platform also acknowledged the emergence of new trends related to gambling content and decided to update its policy to ensure better user protection. Additionally, Twitch identified the need to address potential scams and other harms associated with questionable gambling sites. To combat this, the company now prohibits the sharing of links or referral codes to any websites featuring slots, roulette, or dice games. At the same time, Twitch continues to allow streams related to sports betting, fantasy sports, and poker.
Protecting the Community and Promoting Responsibility
Twitch remains committed to safeguarding its community, combating predatory behavior, and creating a safer platform for its users. The expansion of the ban on gambling livestreams reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to maintain a responsible and secure environment for all participants. By targeting unlicensed gambling sites and prohibiting the sharing of links to potentially harmful platforms, Twitch aims to minimize the risks associated with gambling-related content while still allowing streams that focus on sports betting, fantasy sports, and poker.
Twitch’s decision to expand its ban on gambling livestreams illustrates the platform’s dedication to fostering a safe and responsible community. By addressing the concerns raised by both its users and influential streamers, Twitch aims to uphold its commitment to protect its community and ensure an enjoyable streaming experience for all.
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