Mastercard’s Policy on Adult Content
All sites that are streaming live content have to comply with these policies as well.
In April 2021, Mastercard announced a new policy to prevent illegal adult content on its network. This policy, which came into effect in October 2021, has set forth several requirements for adult content websites to adhere to, ensuring that all transactions processed through Mastercard’s network are legal and consensual.
Navigating the New MasterCard Policies for Content Websites
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, it’s paramount for businesses to stay abreast of the changes in payment processing rules and regulations. One such change that grabbed attention recently is the implementation of new policies by MasterCard for content websites. But what do these changes mean for businesses? Let’s delve into the details.
Unveiling the New Rules
MasterCard, the leading payment solutions provider, has recently introduced new rules for merchants offering website content services. The aim is to enhance transparency, improve user experience, and protect consumers from deceptive business practices. The new policy covers a range of services, including streaming platforms, news outlets, digital content libraries, and more.
Essential Requirements of the Policy
Content Review: All content must be reviewed before publication to ensure it doesn’t violate Mastercard’s standards or the law. AI-supplemented live reviews can have life streams with a short delay, cutting down on the number of employees needed for monitoring.
Age and Identity Verification: The age and identity of everyone depicted in the content and uploaded must be documented. This requirement prevents underage and nonconsensual content from being published.
Complaint Resolution: A process must be in place to address illegal or nonconsensual content within seven business days. This ensures that any potentially harmful content can be quickly removed. Pre-screening: Adult merchants must pre-screen content. This is another measure to prevent the publication of illegal content.
Live Video Streaming: Merchants must use a platform that they can fully control and allows for real-time monitoring and removal of content. This requirement is essential for live content, which can be more challenging to moderate. Quarterly and or yearly reports must be filed with the banks for compliance purposes.
Bank Certification: Banks must certify that the adult or streaming content seller has adequate controls. This requirement ensures that all transactions processed through Mastercard’s network are legal and consensual.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Suppose Mastercard determines that a platform is being used to push adult content without following these regulations. In that case, the platform’s account may be terminated. This policy is part of Mastercard’s commitment to ensuring that only lawful activity occurs on its network.
Impact on the Adult Content Industry
The implementation of this policy has had a significant impact on the adult content industry. Some content creators have expressed concerns that these new policies will make it harder to survive online, as they must abide by much stricter documentation and moderation requirements.
However, Mastercard maintains that these measures are necessary to prevent illegal activity and protect all parties involved.
Mastercard’s policy on adult content demonstrates the company’s commitment to ensuring the legality and safety of transactions on its network. While the policy has been met with some resistance, it represents a significant step towards greater accountability and transparency in the adult content industry.
Since 2001 Nationwide Payment Systems has been helping merchants navigate the high risk space, work with banks, processors and consultants that can assist your company with securing a merchant account and keeping it open by being in compliance.