Twitch ‘monitors’ controversial game streams that may be illegal



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Amazon-owned streaming platform Twitch is keeping a close eye on gambling content, which has grown in viewership significantly in 2021, thanks to the participation of big names and significant sponsorships.

Most notably, Tyler ‘Trainwrecks’ Niknam has been at the forefront of the gambling trend and claimed that he has lost over $ 2 million in the process.

Other big names on Twitch, including most-watched streamer, xQc, and rising star Adin Ross, have also made sponsored gambling streams.

However, the trend is increasingly being watched, both for its legality and its morality. Twitch is watching the trend closely, according to a new report.

Trainwrecks Twitch Gambling Stream
Twitch: TrainwrecksTV / Wikimedia Commons

Trainwrecks is one of the most watched streamers in the gambling category.

In a statement to WIRED, Twitch said, “We strictly prohibit illegal content and activity on the service, and take action on all verified incidents of illegal gambling that are brought to our attention. Our Community guidelines clearly state that ‘[Streamers] must comply with all applicable local, national and international laws when using our services.

They also stated that they “closely monitor gambling content” and that their goal is to create “a safe and positive experience for all users of our service”.

Are Twitch game streams legal?

The WIRED report also states that “much of the gambling promoted on Twitch is illegal or unregulated and poses definite risks to consumers, vulnerable adults, and adolescents or minors,” according to Keith Whyte, director. Executive of the National Council on Problem Gambling.

Twitch’s terms of service specifically mention gambling feeds, while rival platforms YouTube and Facebook Gaming ban feeds showing gambling sites that have not been reviewed.

Slots were the 14th most viewed category on Twitch in June, with names like Trainwrecks, xQc, Xposed, and Yassou making up the top 10 streamer for hours. It’s also worth noting that Slots is one of the only popular categories on Twitch that doesn’t feature a custom image for display.

Twitch Categories
Tic

Slots are often among the top categories on Twitch, but don’t feature a compelling image to attract viewers.

Some streamers have now stopped all game content, now dubbed “gamba stream” by the community, because they were concerned about encouraging viewers to get involved, especially younger ones.

xQc has shut down game streams after revealing the alarming number of fans who used their registration code.

Mizkif, who was offered tens of thousands per hour for a sponsored game stream, also called on Twitch to take action.

Dexerto has reached out to Twitch for comment.

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