Streaming sensation Felix ‘xQc’ Lengyel has expressed skepticism about the new regulations aimed at criminalizing viewbotting, stating that he finds it “impossible” to enforce these rules, despite their intention to protect streamers.
For years, the issue of botting has plagued content creators and streamers alike. Many have experienced inflated follower counts due to malicious actors attempting to get them banned on various platforms, given that botting contravenes established guidelines.
Conversely, some individuals have taken advantage of this tactic, artificially increasing their viewer and follower counts for a brief moment of fame, seemingly unfazed by potential repercussions.
As of October 21, the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has declared viewbotting illegal, provided it is done knowingly. Nevertheless, xQc insists that effective enforcement is nearly impossible.
“Oh god, chat, that seems impossible to enforce, sorry,” he remarked during a stream on October 22.
“If someone viewbots significantly, say a close friend, they can claim they are unaware of it. And when they sell their analytics to a company, if it’s not demonstrably proven that their numbers are artificially inflated, they aren’t technically selling a false product. That doesn’t solve anything.”
The Twitch and KICK streamer further pondered whether those benefiting from viewbotting would actually face any sort of punishment.
“They’ve never been caught, and they probably never will be. There are countless ways to deny responsibility, it’s simply part of the game,” he stated. “If you’re targeted by a viewbotter, don’t expect to be held accountable for that.”
Additionally, the FTC has introduced another significant rule affecting social media influencers, requiring them to disclose when they promote a brand in exchange for compensation. These regulations took effect on October 21, leaving no room for avoidance or a grace period.
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