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Senator Warner Addresses Rising Extremism on Steam Community
A recent report from the Anti-Defamation League has highlighted a significant increase in the prevalence of racist and violent content within the Steam Community, prompting U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) to take action. In a letter reported by The Verge, Warner inquired directly with Valve CEO Gabe Newell about how the company is responding to these alarming findings.
Senator Warner expressed particular concern due to Steam’s stature as the largest online gaming digital distribution and social networking platform worldwide, boasting over 100 million unique user accounts. “Its user base rivals that of established social media platforms,” he noted, underscoring the potential influence and reach of content shared on Steam.
The senator referenced Steam’s online conduct policy, which prohibits users from uploading or posting illegal or inappropriate content, including “real or disturbing depictions of violence,” and from harassing other community members or Steam personnel. “Valve must align its content moderation practices with industry standards,” he emphasized, warning that failure to do so could attract heightened scrutiny from the federal government regarding its role in facilitating the activities of hate groups online.
While Congress lacks direct regulatory power over Valve or online platforms, Warner pointed out the importance of raising awareness about the issue through letters and committee hearings. This follows a Supreme Court decision in June that struck down state laws restricting government officials from communicating with social media companies about problematic content.
This is not the first instance where members of Congress have expressed concern over extremist and racist content associated with Valve’s games. In a letter sent in 2023, the Senate Committee on the Judiciary addressed similar issues, particularly focusing on the use of racist language by players in Valve’s popular multiplayer game, Dota 2.
The inquiry into Valve’s practices reflects broader concerns about content moderation across digital platforms and the responsibilities they bear in preventing the spread of harmful ideologies. As the situation continues to unfold, attention remains on Valve’s response and the potential implications for their community guidelines and enforcement. Valve has been contacted for comment, and updates will follow upon receipt of their statement.
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www.engadget.com