Extremists using platforms like Twitch, Discord to recruit & radicalise players: Study
As the world becomes increasingly digital, extremist groups are finding new and innovative ways to recruit and radicalize individuals. A recent study published in Frontiers of Psychology has highlighted the alarming trend of extremist groups using platforms like Twitch and Discord to spread their ideology and draw in new followers.
Twitch, a popular live streaming platform for gamers, and Discord, a messaging app used by gamers to chat and communicate with each other, offer extremist groups a unique opportunity to reach a large and impressionable audience. These platforms are often used by gamers to socialize and connect with others who share similar interests, making them an attractive target for extremist groups.
According to the study, far-right extremism is the most commonly shared ideology among extremist groups using these platforms. This is not surprising, given the rise of far-right extremism in recent years. The study’s co-author, Dr. Andrew Milne, stated that “these platforms offer extremists direct access to large, often young and impressionable audiences.” This access can be particularly concerning, as young people are often more susceptible to radicalization.
The study found that extremist groups are using a variety of tactics to recruit and radicalize gamers on these platforms. These tactics include spreading propaganda and hate speech, sharing graphic images and videos, and even using gaming terminology to mask their true intentions.
One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the ease with which extremist groups can infiltrate gaming communities. Many gamers are social and outgoing, and are often eager to connect with others who share their interests. This can make it difficult for extremist groups to stand out, as they can blend in with the rest of the gaming community.
The study also found that extremist groups are using gaming terminology to spread their ideology. For example, they may use terms like “noob” or “fag” to describe opponents, or use gaming memes to spread hate speech. This can make it difficult for gamers to recognize when they are being targeted by extremist groups, as the language and terminology used may be familiar and seemingly innocuous.
The implications of this trend are far-reaching and concerning. As gaming becomes increasingly popular, extremist groups are likely to continue using these platforms to spread their ideology and recruit new followers. This can have serious consequences, including the spread of hate speech and violence.
So, what can be done to combat this trend? The study’s authors suggest that gamers, parents, and educators must be aware of the risks posed by extremist groups using gaming platforms. They also recommend that gaming companies take steps to moderate their platforms and prevent extremist groups from using them to spread hate speech and propaganda.
In addition, the study suggests that governments and law enforcement agencies must work together to combat the spread of extremism online. This can include monitoring extremist groups and taking action against those who use gaming platforms to spread hate speech and propaganda.
The study’s findings are a wake-up call for the gaming community and beyond. As we move forward in this digital age, it is essential that we are aware of the risks posed by extremist groups using gaming platforms and take steps to prevent them from spreading their ideology.
In conclusion, the study highlights the alarming trend of extremist groups using platforms like Twitch and Discord to recruit and radicalize gamers. This trend is concerning, given the potential consequences for individuals and society as a whole. As we move forward, it is essential that we are aware of the risks posed by extremist groups using gaming platforms and take steps to prevent them from spreading their ideology.
