YouTube Terminates ‘ToyFreaks’ Kids Channel—Tightens Terms

Several media outlets have pointed out a disturbing laxness in the way YouTube filters out content a few weeks ago. Demonstrating the inability of relying on algorithm to catch all inappropriate content that are not suitable for children. This ranged from content using familiar kid-friendly characters and videos of children placed in traumatic scenarios. One of the major concerns is that many of these channels have become so large. They bring in so much revenue that YouTube would not even think of giving them penalties.

A similar criticism of YouTube playing favorites have been brought up before. This was after a crackdown and creators saw most of their content flagged as ineligble for monetization. Many of the smaller channels were the recipient of flags. However, some of the larger channels got a pass even though they both cover the same topic. This time, YouTube is promising that thing are different. They are proving it by shutting down one of the biggest channels on the site.

YouTube Terminates ToyFreaks Channel

ToyFreaks, the 68th largest YouTube channel with its 8.5 million subscriber base is no more. When it was active, its videos includes the father filming his daughters in ‘prank’ scenarios. This even involved following them into the bathroom as they cry after a bloody tooth fell out. He even placed live frogs once to scare them while they were taking a bath. One video also shows the girls dressed as babies and spitting on each other.

According to YouTube speaking to TechCrunch, the channel was shut down for violating their child endangerment policies. Moreover, the company pledges that there will be a tightening of terms. More channels will be closed if found in violation of these policies. Several videos with hundreds of millions of total views from FamilyFreakVlogs and KiddieToysReviews have also now been deleted by YouTube. They have even terminated one of their own channels CitizenTube recently for violation of terms.

ToyFreaks Statement

Greg Chism, owner of ToyFreaks has provided the following statement regarding the shut down:

Earlier this week, YouTube informed me of concerns that my videos were attracting audience members who do not have childrens’ best interests in their hearts. Many YouTube community members expressed similar concerns. And their willingness to reach out to protect my children and all children from exploitation reinforces my faith in the YouTube community. Victoria, Annabelle and I want to thank our supporters as my girls have had the opportunity to develop their creativity and self-confidence over the past few years. Their future is bright. While it is disturbing to me that anyone would find inappropriate pleasure in our video skits, I deeply appreciate YouTube’s concerns for my family and I could not be happier with having had this remarkable experience.