Fairness and Consistency of Steam Moderation on War Symbolism and Propaganda

[barebuh ✿]

Hi everyone!

I’d like to discuss how Steam handles content related to war symbols and propaganda. During the ongoing war in Ukraine, I frequently encounter profiles displaying symbols like the "Z" symbol, as well as other messages that appear to promote war-related propaganda.

What concerns me is that, even after reporting such profiles, little action seems to be taken. In contrast, I have faced warnings and even restrictions on my account after receiving multiple reports from users who may simply disagree with my opinions. This raises questions about the fairness and consistency of Steam’s moderation policies.

Has anyone else encountered this issue? How do you feel about how Steam moderates such content? I believe that applying moderation fairly, especially on sensitive topics like war, is crucial for maintaining a safe and respectful community for everyone.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences on this matter.

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Привіт усім!

Мене турбує питання, як саме Steam регулює контент, пов’язаний із символікою та пропагандою війни. Зараз, під час війни в Україні, часто зустрічаю профілі, де користувачі публікують символіку, таку як літера "Z", а також інші повідомлення, що здаються пропагандою, пов’язаною з війною.

Мене хвилює, що, навіть після скарг на такі профілі, платформа не завжди вживає заходів. У той же час я сам отримував попередження і навіть обмеження у відповідь на численні скарги від користувачів, які, можливо, просто не погоджуються з моїми поглядами. Це викликає питання про справедливість і послідовність політики модерації Steam.

Чи стикалися ви з подібною ситуацією? Як ви ставитеся до того, як Steam модерує такий контент? Я вважаю, що важливо застосовувати модерацію справедливо, особливо у випадках, що стосуються таких чутливих тем, як війна.

Чекаю ваших думок і досвіду з цього питання.

[Maria]

How do you determine that they didn't just put that symbol because of other reason, maybe they just like it?

i think that's also why steam didn't pay heed to your plea.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Maria:

How do you determine that they didn't just put that symbol because of other reason, maybe they just like it?

I get what you're saying, but usually, it’s pretty obvious from the context whether someone is using the "Z" symbol just as a random choice or if it’s intended to show support for the war. Often, it’s not just the symbol itself, but also other profile elements or messages in chat that clearly indicate their stance. For instance, these profiles frequently include specific slogans, flags, or other symbols that are directly linked to supporting the invasion. So, it’s rarely just a single symbol taken out of context; the overall presentation usually makes their intentions quite clear.

[Silicon Vampire]

Things like this only bother you if you let it bother you. By making this thread, you have given attention to it. This is exactly what the people doing it want.

Be a part of the solution rather than the problem.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

Things like this only bother you if you let it bother you. By making this thread, you have given attention to it. This is exactly what the people doing it want.

Be a part of the solution rather than the problem.

I understand your perspective, but I believe staying silent is not the answer here. Ignoring these symbols and messages only allows them to spread further, especially when moderation doesn’t step in. When we don’t address these issues, it sends a message that this kind of behavior is acceptable, and it can make the platform feel unsafe for users affected by the conflict.

Bringing attention to the issue isn’t about giving them what they want; it’s about making Steam aware that users expect a respectful, neutral space. We can’t be part of the solution if we simply turn a blind eye—raising concerns is necessary for creating change.

[Silicon Vampire]

I think you’re expecting a lot. Support can’t even get Support ticket answers correct in the first three or four times. Not sure how you could expect anything better than what you’re getting from them. Moderation here on the forms is much worse even.

The only thing consistent about this place anymore, is its inconsistency.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

I think you’re expecting a lot. Support can’t even get Support ticket answers correct in the first three or four times. Not sure how you could expect anything better than what you’re getting from them. Moderation here on the forms is much worse even.

The only thing consistent about this place anymore, is its inconsistency.

I know expectations can feel high, especially with the way support and moderation seem to be handled. But if we all just lower our standards, nothing will improve. The fact that things are inconsistent doesn’t mean we should stop calling for change.

[Silicon Vampire]

Remembering a conversation with another moderator long ago when I was arguing your side of a similar issue.

He asked a question that sums it up completely.

“How’s that working out for you?”

It proved prophetic.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

Remembering a conversation with another moderator long ago when I was arguing your side of a similar issue.

He asked a question that sums it up completely.

“How’s that working out for you?”

It proved prophetic.

In my country, we are experiencing an actual war, and the symbols and messages arising from this situation can profoundly affect people's lives. While previous efforts may not have produced the results we desired, that doesn't diminish the importance of continuing to address these issues.

[Silicon Vampire]

Please don't misconstrue my attitude as disagreement. I do not disagree. I just know what it's like trying to get anything accomplished with vALVE.

It's like pissing into a windmill. messy and frustrating.

[Maria]

Originally posted by strong ✿:

...; the overall presentation usually makes their intentions quite clear.

I see, it is too bad that people can't stop bringing anything, which is not really quite the place for it, to a gaming platform, lel. Like Silicon said, don't overthink it.

We have many items in steam points shop depicting some political leaders, some games are also made based on them too, you only have to see them from a different perspective. I'm not saying I'm pro-Russia, or that I condone their behavior, it is just that from our position right now, there isn't much we can do besides sending a report to support.

I have noticed that it looks like you are using chat gpt or some sort to post. Thank you for making the effort by the way, makes it easier to read.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

Please don't misconstrue my attitude as disagreement. I do not disagree. I just know what it's like trying to get anything accomplished with vALVE.

It's like pissing into a windmill. messy and frustrating.

Originally posted by Silicon Vampire:

Please don't misconstrue my attitude as disagreement. I do not disagree. I just know what it's like trying to get anything accomplished with vALVE.

It's like pissing into a windmill. messy and frustrating.

Completely agree.

[barebuh ✿]

Originally posted by Maria:

Originally posted by strong ✿:

...; the overall presentation usually makes their intentions quite clear.

I see, it is too bad that people can't stop bringing anything, which is not really quite the place for it, to a gaming platform, lel. Like Silicon said, don't overthink it.

We have many items in steam points shop depicting some political leaders, some games are also made based on them too, you only have to see them from a different perspective. I'm not saying I'm pro-Russia, or that I condone their behavior, it is just that from our position right now, there isn't much we can do besides sending a report to support.

I have noticed that it looks like you are using chat gpt or some sort to post. Thank you for making the effort by the way, makes it easier to read. :neko_evil:

I understand where you're coming from. It is unfortunate that discussions about political symbols often find their way into a gaming platform. However, these symbols can carry significant weight, especially considering the ongoing war in my country.

While the Steam Points shop features various items that might depict political leaders, it’s essential to consider the broader context and the potential impact on users. I appreciate your acknowledgment of my efforts; I do use GPT to articulate my thoughts clearly. It helps make these discussions more accessible, which is important when addressing such serious topics.