Twitch Revamps Suspension Policies for More Targeted Enforcement
In a significant policy shift, Twitch has announced an overhaul of its suspension system, moving away from the previous all-encompassing penalties to a more nuanced approach. This change introduces two distinct types of suspensions: streaming suspensions and chatting suspensions, aiming to align penalties more closely with the nature of the violation.
Introduction of Targeted Suspensions
Historically, a temporary suspension on Twitch resulted in a complete loss of platform access, including the inability to chat, watch streams while logged in, and access account information. Recognizing the limitations of this blanket approach, Twitch is now implementing a system where penalties correspond directly to the specific offense committed.
Streaming Suspensions
Users who violate Twitch’s Community Guidelines during a livestream will face a streaming suspension. This means they will be prohibited from going live, and chat functionality on their channel will be temporarily disabled. However, during this suspension, the user retains the ability to watch other streams while logged in, participate in chats on other channels, and access their user dashboard. Additionally, viewers can still watch the suspended user’s existing clips and videos.
Chatting Suspensions
Conversely, if a user breaches the Community Guidelines within chat, they will receive a chatting suspension. This restricts them from participating in chats on other streams but allows them to continue streaming their own content and watching other streamers. Notably, users under a chat suspension can still engage in chat within their own channel but are barred from interacting in chats on other channels.
Handling Severe Violations
For more serious infractions that pose a greater risk to the community, Twitch will impose both streaming and chatting suspensions simultaneously to prevent further harm. In cases of the most egregious violations, users will face indefinite suspensions, resulting in a complete loss of access to Twitch. The platform emphasizes that there is no place for serious violations within its community.
Duration and Escalation of Suspensions
The duration of temporary suspensions remains unchanged, ranging from 24 hours to 30 days. With each subsequent violation, the length of the suspension will increase. Accumulating multiple temporary suspensions can still lead to an indefinite suspension from Twitch.
Assessment of Violation Severity
Twitch assesses the severity of a violation by considering the extent of harm it causes or has the potential to cause. Harm is defined as any action that leads to physical, emotional, social, or financial damage to a user or to Twitch.
Future Developments
The company is working on additional suspension types that will roll out in future updates.
Conclusion
Twitch’s revamped suspension policy reflects a commitment to creating a safer and more equitable environment for its users. By implementing targeted suspensions that correspond directly to the nature of the violation, the platform aims to enforce its Community Guidelines more effectively while allowing users to retain access to certain features when appropriate. This nuanced approach not only addresses the specific behaviors that violate community standards but also provides a clearer framework for users to understand the consequences of their actions.
