Ofcom Report on Twitch Gambling Content Classification

Twitch, a platform owned by Amazon, has recently been scrutinized for its handling of gambling content, particularly given its large underage audience. Despite implementing changes to its content classification guidelines, many are questioning why Twitch's management hasn't taken the more straightforward approach of outright banning gambling streams. This concern is especially pertinent considering how easily minors can alter their birthdates during registration, effectively bypassing age restrictions and exposing themselves to gambling content.

The recent report from The Office of Communications (Ofcom) sheds light on the effectiveness of Twitch's new content labelling system, which was introduced in June 2023. These guidelines require streamers to accurately label their streams if they contain mature themes, including gambling. According to the report, prior to these changes, only 65% of gambling streams were correctly labelled as mature. While the new system has improved labelling accuracy, the core issue remains unaddressed—underage viewers can still easily access gambling content.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that many popular streamers on Twitch are promoting gambling, often playing with fake money or endorsing casinos with reduced RTP rates. These streamers, who should be setting an example for responsible behaviour, are instead luring young viewers into the world of gambling under false pretenses. As a result, most of these streamers have landed on our blacklist for unethical practices.

Given the platform's massive influence and the vulnerability of its audience, the question arises: why hasn't Twitch simply banned gambling streams altogether? Allowing this content to persist, while knowing that minors can easily access it, is tantamount to advertising gambling to underage viewers. It's time for Twitch to take a stronger stance and prioritise the safety and well-being of its users over the profits generated from gambling streams.