YouTube Updates Harassment Policy to Target Veiled Threats and Abusive Language
YouTube rolls out a stricter harassment policy that bans veiled threats and malicious insults based on protected attributes. The update aims to better protect creators and curb toxic behavior on the platform.
YouTube introduces a stricter harassment policy that directly targets veiled threats, personal attacks, and toxic comments. The platform states that harassment makes creators less inclined to share their opinions, prompting the company to consult with online bullying experts, free speech proponents, and journalist advocacy groups to develop these updated guidelines.
The updated rules expand on previous prohibitions by now banning implied or simulated threats of violence. Additionally, the policy prohibits language that maliciously insults individuals based on protected attributes such as race, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, or physical traits.
This policy shift addresses recent controversies where creators used racist and homophobic language against journalists, which previously resulted only in demonetization rather than removal. YouTube maintains that it remains an open platform but insists it will not tolerate harassment as it gets tougher on repeat offenders.