YouTube Testing A Program That Lets Creators Self-Report Controversial Content

YouTube has been under fire for scandals over content spread on its network like videos related to child exploitation and extremism. At the same time, there have been complaints from video creators about the rules for demonetization on YouTube, which prevents them from making money from advertising on their videos.

YouTube product chief Neal Mohan said on Wednesday that the firm is testing a program that will cope with these two problems. According to Mohan, it’s a “self-certification” program allowing video creators to self-report to the platform about their videos’ content and if the videos include controversial or swearing content. The idea is that video creators will let the platform know which of their videos complies with its guidelines for monetization.

He added that YouTube will perform checks and audits to make sure there’s no abuse:

However, in the past, the firm had trouble preventing people from abusing its services as well as gaming its systems. It has unwittingly helped pedophiles find content featuring children and misinformation.

Under this program, the platform will inform creators about the reason their videos are demonetized, according to a spokeswoman. The program is under tests only, but Mohan said that the company eventually aims to move further toward such models.

Over the years, advertisers have blasted YouTube for toxic content on its platform. In 2017, the Google-owned firm faced a boycott from many brands, which included Johnson & Johnson and AT&T, as their advertisements were displayed on extremist videos. This scandal was called an “adpocalyspe” in the creator community.

Moreover, the company has recently faced severe criticism over the way it deals with creators. Back in August, a group of YouTube video makers said that they joined German metal worker union IG Metall, aiming at asking YouTube to be more transparent about the decision-making process regarding demonetization and moderation. The company said that it would meet with them, but wouldn’t negotiate on those demands.

In September, the firm was in trouble with its verification program. Initially, it said that the subscription number would be removed from the verification decision. However, after complaints from video creators, YouTube said creators with at least 100,000 subscribers can still apply for verification. It also said to roll out a new verification badge next month, but that’s now delayed for next year.