Known as ‘YouTube for gamers’, Twitch is a platform used primarily by gamers to watch and/or livestream their gameplay. Users can follow broadcasters for free or subscribe to a channel for a fee.
Livestreams consist of ‘streamers’ playing their favourite videogames while commentating. There are also non-gaming categories which feature streamers cooking, baking, and being creative
Core Functions
- Livestream gameplay (or other activity) while providing commentary.
- Interact with viewers while playing games via a chatroom that appears beside livestreams.
- Use the private chat function called a ‘Whisper’, which can only come from people users have previously accepted messages from.
Risks
- Advertising runs on the platform, and streamers may advertise on their livestreams. This is not always age-appropriate.
- Twitch is owned by Amazon and comes free with an Amazon Prime subscription. ‘Twitch Prime’ accounts have access to extra features on both platforms and ad-free viewing.
- There is no filter for child-friendly channels. While many channels are known for being appropriate for all audiences, such as super ‘funiverse’, there is no protection against children viewing other inappropriate content.
- While Twitch is largely a gaming site, there is a section called ‘IRL’ (In Real Life) where broadcasters will often stream non-gaming related activities for money. This can involve alcohol and other content which may not be suitable for younger children.
- Users can ban certain words in their settings, but content is only moderated after it’s been posted. This means young people might see inappropriate content before it has been moderated.
- Children and young people can watch livestreams of games that have PEGI ratings for older users, which may expose them to inappropriate content.
Safety Settings
- There is a 'Report' button beside the user’s stream, but it can only be used by those logged into a Twitch account.
- Certain words can be set as blocked in the chat (e.g. cursewords).
- Users can block messages, whispers, and invites from people they don’t follow.
Top Tips
- As with all livestreaming activities online, it’s important to never give out personal information.