Last Updated on 5th April 2024
Reading Time: 6.7 mins
2nd March 2023
If you have a gamer in your household, chances are you’ve heard the word ‘Twitch’ being used. The name sounds fun, age-appropriate, and harmless. It would be easy to assume it is a type of game or a new slang word.
In reality, Twitch is a far more complicated platform that can expose children and young people to age-inappropriate content in a hard-to-control environment.
This guide to Twitch will take a closer look at what Twitch is and what you need to know to help keep your children and young people safe. Make sure you read to the bottom to catch our Top Tips and download our Twitch Shareable!
All About Twitch
How does Twitch work?
Twitch was created specifically for live-footage broadcasters (streamers) to show off a variety of skills. The majority of people using Twitch are there to stream themselves playing games or to watch others livestreaming games. Popular games like Among Us and COD: Warzone can be found on the home page, but any game or theme can be searched for on the platform.
With an account, you can follow streamers, comment on videos, use streamer chat rooms, and subscribe to your favourite channels. In addition, Twitch has a direct messaging system called ‘Whispers’, which allows any user to communicate with another user, even if they are not friends on the platform.
Red flag: Age Requirements
Twitch guidelines state users must be at least 13-years-old to register for an account, and anyone under 18 should be authorised by a parent or guardian who agrees to the terms and conditions.
In November 2022, Twitch introduced mandatory phone verification requirements and strengthened their tech techniques to help identify and close accounts belonging to users who are under 13.
Despite this, there is no effective age verification process upon registration, and you do not need an account to browse video content on Twitch.
What are Twitch’s safety settings?
As with most platforms of this nature, the safety settings are not 100% fool proof. Ensure your child or young person knows how to adjust their privacy and use helpful tools when needed by visiting Our Safety Centre.
What are the risks on Twitch?
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