Streaming platform Kick is claiming responsibility after Twitch introduced a series of changes to its ban system in a new update.
In February 2025, Twitch revealed updates to how bans would be handled in an attempt to decrease the amount of permabans they dish out to content creators.
The first was the introduction of expiring violations. Previously, streamers could be indefinitely suspended if they happened to accrue multiple smaller infractions during the course of their career.
Next, Twitch announced that streamers who keep committing the same community guideline violations in quick succession would receive greater punishments.
The Amazon-owned platform is also promising to give banned streamers more context about why they were suspended in a future change, including sharing clips showing exactly where a violation occurred.
While these changes add transparency, Kick says the only reason these updates were made was because of their own moderation system.
Kick takes responsibility for Twitch’s upgraded ban features
In a post on X, Kick’s Head of Strategic Partnerships, Andrew Santamaria, claimed that the green site’s moderation system was responsible for Twitch’s changes.
“Kick’s mod system has forced platforms to adapt yet again!” he exclaimed. “Kick warnings are sent to verified users before a ban. The email warning includes recordings, images, and an explanation of the violation. Warnings are not sent for extreme cases that require immediate action.”
He continued in a follow-up tweet, explaining that the team is planning to expand those warnings to all creators and not just ones who have been verified.
As stated in previous KICK Talks our aim is eventually provide these warnings to all Creators on KICK, not just Verified as we scale.
Oh and we’re still the only platform with 24/7 live chat support. 🎧🗣️
— Santamaria (@Svntvmvriv) February 21, 2025
The Stake-owned platform launched with much looser rules than other streaming sites such as Twitch and YouTube, but Kick has toughened up a bit since and has even issued some permabans.
Felix ‘xQc’ Lengyel, a streamer who signed a $100M contract with Kick, notably claimed to have pushed for the site to crack down on dangerous content.
For instance, Kick suspended Jack Doherty when he crashed his McLaren while using his phone and banned Fousey after the broadcaster threatened to harm himself.
As the streaming wars continue, it’s clear that both platforms are benefitting in some way, with each pushing the other to improve by adding new features and enhancing the experience.
