Explicit adult content has been discovered appearing in Spotify search results, raising concerns about content moderation on the platform. The issue was first highlighted when a Reddit user found pornographic videos while searching for "mia," including content featuring former adult film actress Mia Khalifa.

Several accounts are exploiting Spotify's new video feature to upload explicit content. While some accounts have historically posted erotic audio on the platform, the recent addition of video capabilities has led to more explicit visual content appearing in search results.

Key Points About the Issue:

• Content appears through unmoderated podcast uploads
• Spotify has removed identified explicit content for policy violations
• Platform only allows content reporting through their website, not in-app
• Similar issues occurred in 2022 with explicit audio and playlist cover art

Spotify's Response:

• Immediate removal of identified explicit content
• Reaffirmation of policy prohibiting sexually explicit material
• Acknowledgment of content moderation challenges

This isn't Spotify's first content moderation challenge. The platform previously faced issues with neo-Nazi and white supremacist content, leading to the removal of 37 bands that violated hate speech policies. Spotify maintains strict policies against both sexually explicit material and content promoting hate speech.

Current Platform Safeguards:

• Clear policies prohibiting explicit sexual content
• Web-based reporting system for violations
• Active content moderation team
• Swift removal of identified violations

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in content moderation for major streaming platforms as they expand their feature sets and content types.

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