Twitch’s gambling problem

Last month, Twitch announced that it will take action against streamers using the platform to promote unregulated crypto gambling, which has been a thorn in the sides of gamers and Twitch viewers alike for quite a considerable time. Needless to say, gambling streams on the platform have always been a controversial topic. 

The streaming giant is facing a backlash from streamers and users for featuring gambling categories that could have potentially harmful effects on Twitch viewers, particularly on younger ones. Dating back to August 2021, Twitch prohibited its streamers from using links and referral codes to illegal gambling sites, however, this wasn’t nearly enough to solve the problem. 

Strictening policies

Following some of the platform’s top streamers’ threats to start boycotting the platform if Twitch didn’t change its policy regarding gambling streams, Twitch announced a policy change. Per the new policy, streaming of gambling sites that include slots, roulette, or dice games that are not licensed in the US or other regions with sufficient consumer protection, is prohibited. The ban applies to sites such as Stake.com, Rollbit.com, and Duelbits.com, with more to be reportedly identified later on. 

This announcement, however, does not ban gambling on Twitch entirely. As per Twitch’s announcement post, fantasy sports and even sports betting will be allowed on the platform going forward. The new policy took effect on October 18.

Poor results 

With the new gambling rule being in effect for over a week now, the results look worse than before. Even though some of the biggest creators on the platform are not streaming crypto gambling anymore, the slots category is now filled with scams and “placeholder” streams with the goal of redirecting viewers to a different streaming site and having them watch crypto gambling streams. Viewers should be careful about following redirect links, as it could result in getting scammed or seeing some atrocious stuff. 

Some streamers in the slot category stream the same crypto gambling that big-name streamers used to play before the ban, however, they use false addresses to cover up which site they’re gambling with.

Based on this, it feels like Twitch is not interested in enforcing the rules they set up. Considering that gambling streaming started out on Twitch, the platform’s obligation is to take responsibility for the situation.  

Header: Twitch