Q: Can a s** offender on probation become a content creator/streamer?
As a person on probation for a sexual offense, I'm considering becoming a content creator/streamer on platforms such as Twitch, Rumble, and YouTube. My probation allows internet use but prohibits direct contact with minors and requires staying 1000 feet away from places where children congregate. I plan to focus on topics such as videogames, coding, website development, and cybersecurity. Are these activities compliant with my probation requirements, and are there any legal considerations I should be aware of, especially concerning platform terms of service?
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A:
You can become a content creator or streamer while on probation, as long as your activities don’t violate the specific conditions set by your probation officer or the court. Since you’re allowed internet access and your restriction is primarily avoiding direct contact with minors, creating content about gaming, coding, and tech should generally be okay. Just be mindful not to directly engage with underage viewers, especially through chat or private messages.
Before going live or uploading videos, it’s a good idea to have a conversation with your probation officer. They can help clarify any gray areas, especially regarding how interaction is defined in your case. Even if your content isn’t aimed at minors, platforms like Twitch and YouTube have large youth audiences, so indirect interaction can still raise concerns.
You’ll also need to check the terms of service for each platform. Some may have strict rules about prior convictions, especially if they involve minors. Violating those terms, even unintentionally, could lead to being banned or reported. Staying transparent and careful about what you share and how you engage with viewers is key.
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