SAN FRANCISCO – Everybody just settle down. Twitter has not banned porn. The microblogging network merely clarified its terms of service to address some safety issues that, frankly, should’ve been addressed long ago.
To recap: In late October, Twitter began updating its rules to make clear certain kinds of content will not be tolerated. The disallowed content includes non-consensual nudity; unwanted sexual advances; hate speech, symbols and imagery; and violent groups, tweets that glorify violence and graphic depictions of violence.
In light of Patreon’s abrupt about-face regarding adult content on the subscription platform, it’s understandable adult entertainment professionals might be a little nervous about finding themselves on the outs with Twitter, too.
But the only legitimate adult content producers who need to worry are those who produce fantasy material that appears to depict upskirt shots, faux rape, sexual violence and “stalker”-type scenarios. If you post that kind of content on Twitter, expect to be in contact with the network’s Trust and Safety Team about your closed account.
Otherwise, nothing has changed. Adult entertainment producers and independent artists may continue to use Twitter as they always have. Sexually explicit material is not allowed in profile pics or header images, but nudity, simulated sex and actual intercourse remain acceptable in tweets as long as those tweets are marked “sensitive material.”
“Artistic, medical, health, or educational content” — like breastfeeding or classical works of art — does not require the sensitive label.
Twitter’s advertising guidelines do ban paid posts promoting adult and sexual products and services, including porn, escorts, penis enlargement, breast augmentation, dating sites, erotic massage, sex toys and marriage brokers.
