YouTube to Demonetize Videos for ‘Inappropriate Comments’
Peter D'Abrosca
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In response to a complaint from a user about her YouTube videos not being “advertiser friendly,” the Google-owned tech giant revealed that it will now demonetize content based on comments that it deems “inappropriate.”
“Hi there–for reference, over the past few days, we’ve taken a number of actions to better protect the YouTube community from content that endangers minor,” YouTube said on Twitter. “With regard to the actions that we’ve taken, even if your video is suitable for advertisers, inappropriate comments could result in your video receiving limited or no ads (yellow icon). Let us know if you have any questions.”
(2/2) With regard to the actions that we've taken, even if your video is suitable for advertisers, inappropriate comments could result in your video receiving limited or no ads (yellow icon). Let us know if you have any questions.
— TeamYouTube (@TeamYouTube) February 22, 2019
Obviously, what any of the hundreds of millions of YouTube users might say in a comment on a video is out of the control of the person who created the video. YouTube, which is known for its censorship of anyone politically right of Stalin, is setting another dangerous precedent.
“Great so a lynch mob can target certain channels they disagree with. No issues there! </sarcasm>” one Twitter user said in response.
Great so a lynch mob can target certain channels they disagree with. No issues there! </sarcasm>
— B. (@Brittany_207) February 22, 2019
Some users appear poised to simply disable comments on their videos to avoid running the risk of being demonetized.
“So I guess YouTube creators should just turn off comments since they can’t control what others say in them?” said another Twitter user.
https://twitter.com/jerbergmann/status/1098958139947470854
Turning off comments presents another problem for creators. Part of YouTube’s algorithm analyzes and prioritizes videos that attract interactions, like comments and “likes.” Disabling comments could significantly hamper the reach of YouTube creators.
Tech censorship continues to take its toll.
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