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Content classification labels: when to use them

KICK supports a wide range of content. To make sure Viewers know what to expect and to comply with our Community Guidelines, Streamers are expected to apply accurate labels to their streams.

This guide explains when to use the 18+ label, how to choose the right category, and what is required for content involving mature themes.

Why labels matter

Accurate labelling helps in three ways:

  • Viewers know what to expect before they enter your stream

  • Sensitive content stays away from younger audiences who should not see it

  • You comply with our Community Guidelines, which require accurate categorisation and labelling

Failing to label your stream correctly can result in warnings, content removal, or in repeat cases, suspension.

When to use the 18+ label

You must apply the 18+ label when your stream contains content that is unsuitable for Viewers under 18. This includes:

  • Mature themes that go beyond what is appropriate for younger audiences

  • Suggestive content involving consenting adults (within the bounds of our Community Guidelines)

  • Strong or explicit language used persistently

  • Gambling content, which always requires the 18+ label

  • Violence in mature games that goes beyond cartoonish or stylised

  • Drug-related content including discussions of drug use

  • Disturbing or graphic discussion of sensitive topics

The 18+ label is not just for pornography (which is not permitted on KICK at all). It is for any content where it would be inappropriate for a 13-year-old Viewer to land on your stream without warning.

💡 If you are unsure whether to apply the 18+ label, the safer choice is to apply it. Over-labelling has no negative consequences. Under-labelling can result in enforcement action.

Choosing the right category

Your stream's category should accurately reflect what you are doing. Common categories on KICK include:

  • Just Chatting — talking to your community without a specific activity

  • Specific games — each game has its own category

  • Music — live performances, DJ sets, music production

  • ASMR — calming, audio-focused content

  • Slots & Casino — gambling content (where legally permitted)

  • IRL — outdoor or real-world streams

  • Art — drawing, painting, digital art

  • Sports — sports content (within rights)

If you start your stream playing one game and switch to another activity, update your category accordingly. Streaming under the wrong category to attract more Viewers (called "category abuse") is a violation of our Guidelines.

Specific content types that require careful labelling

Gambling streams

Gambling streams must:

  • Apply the 18+ label

  • Be placed in the appropriate gambling category (Slots & Casino, etc.)

  • Disclose any sponsorships clearly (visually and audibly)

  • Comply with the gambling laws in your jurisdiction

  • Never use Viewer-provided funds (no buy-ins from your audience)

For full rules, see Guideline 11 in the Community Guidelines.

Mature game content

Many games include violence, language, or themes that warrant the 18+ label. Consider the game's official rating as a starting point. Games rated for adults should generally be streamed with the 18+ label applied.

IRL streams in sensitive locations

If you are streaming in public, be mindful of:

  • Capturing bystanders without their knowledge or consent

  • Streaming from sensitive locations (private property, vulnerable areas)

  • Following local laws on recording and filming

  • Avoiding harassment or exploitation of unwilling participants

For more on IRL streaming considerations, see Streamer Safety Tips: How to Stream Safely on KICK.

Discussions of self-harm or mental health

Discussion of mental health and personal experiences is supported on KICK. Promoting, encouraging, or instructing self-harm is not permitted. If your stream covers sensitive topics, consider:

  • Adding the 18+ label if discussion may be graphic or disturbing

  • Including content warnings at the start of the stream

  • Linking to support resources in your channel panels (see Crisis Resource List)

AI-generated content

If your stream uses AI to generate realistic content, you must disclose this through:

  • Your stream title

  • An on-screen overlay

  • Or another clear method visible to Viewers

This applies particularly to deepfakes, voice clones, or any synthetic media that could mislead Viewers. AI-generated non-consensual intimate imagery is strictly prohibited under any conditions.

Updating your label and category mid-stream

You can change your stream's title, category, and labels at any time during your stream:

  1. Go to your Streamer Dashboard

  2. Click Edit Stream Info

  3. Update your title, category, or 18+ label

  4. Click Save

If your content changes during the stream (for example, you finish a game and start a Just Chatting segment), update the category to match.

Branded content and paid promotion

If your stream includes paid partnerships, sponsorships, or affiliate content, you must disclose it clearly. Use KICK's "Branded Content" tool and:

  • Include a visual overlay (such as #Ad or #Sponsored in the livestream title)

  • Make a verbal disclosure at the beginning of any sponsored segment

  • Use plain language like "Paid Promotion" — avoid vague terms like "Partner" or "Collab"

This is required by our Guidelines and by law in most countries.

What happens if I label incorrectly?

Mislabelling content can result in:

  • A warning from KICK's moderation team

  • Your stream being relabelled or recategorised

  • Loss of the ability to set certain labels yourself

  • In repeat cases, suspension of your account

Honest mistakes are usually addressed with a warning. Deliberate mislabelling — for example, removing an 18+ label to reach more Viewers — is treated more seriously.

Still have questions?

If you are unsure whether your content needs the 18+ label or which category to use, contact [email protected]. Please include:

  • Your KICK Streamer username

  • A description of the content you plan to stream

  • Your specific question

When in doubt, label up rather than down.

Related articles

  • Understanding KICK's Community Guidelines

  • What gets you suspended on KICK

  • Streamer Safety Tips: How to Stream Safely on KICK

  • Mental Health on KICK

  • Crisis Resource List

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