FTC Implements New Rule Prohibiting Viewbotting Practices

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has officially implemented a new regulation that prohibits the use of “fake social media indicators,” which encompasses viewbotting practices frequently observed on platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Kick.

Back in August 2024, the FTC announced this ruling aimed at addressing various challenges related to online shopping and the misuse of social media.

This regulation targets fraudulent AI-generated reviews found on e-commerce websites like Amazon and Walmart, the suppression of unfavorable reviews, and the unauthorized use of fake social media metrics.

In its press release announcing the measure, the Federal Trade Commission clarified that the rule forbids the sale or purchase of artificial indicators of social media presence, including followers or views created by bots or compromised accounts.

The ruling applies specifically when the purchaser was aware, or reasonably should have been aware, that the views or followers were fake and misrepresented their own social influence.

FTC Chair Lina Khan declared that this rule became effective on Monday, October 21, effectively criminalizing viewbotting practices across major streaming platforms.

As of today, @FTC‘s final rule banning fake online reviews and testimonials has come into effect. If you encounter any of these prohibited practices, please report them to the @FTC at: https://t.co/k0O6juZImU https://t.co/I2Rf0b9xTH pic.twitter.com/60qp2cRJMU

— Lina Khan (@linakhanFTC) October 21, 2024

Engaging in practices that artificially inflate views or followers on social media and streaming services such as Twitch, Kick, and YouTube is referred to as “viewbotting,” and this topic is currently generating much discussion within the community.

Allegations of viewbotting frequently surface against popular content creators across these streaming platforms, prompting numerous individuals to voice their opposition to such practices.

Following the relaunch of FaZe Clan in April 2024, CEO Ricky Banks had to respond to accusations that the organization was resorting to this tactic to enhance its image.

“The fact that any of you think the guys are viewbotting reflects the kind of momentum FaZe has right now. I assure you, they are not. Just the homies having fun and working hard. Always with love,” he stated in a post on X.

This regulation is not the only significant FTC guideline content creators need to adhere to on social media. Influencers posting promotional content for companies after receiving payment, commonly known as brand partnerships, must clearly indicate that the content is sponsored, either via a hashtag or by explicitly stating it in the post.

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