YouTube has updated its monetization policy regarding videos with strong profanity in the first seven seconds. According to Conor Kavanagh, YouTube’s head of monetization policy experience, such videos are now eligible for full monetization, whereas previously they were only eligible for “limited ad revenue.”
Changes to YouTube’s policies on inappropriate language have been a point of contention for content creators. In November 2022, the company introduced a policy that could potentially limit ad revenue for videos containing profanity in the first 8–15 seconds. Content creator ProZD, also known as SungWon Cho, expressed frustration with the policy change in a video where he criticized it strongly after waiting 15 seconds. YouTube later adjusted its policies in March 2023, allowing videos with profanity in the first 8–15 seconds to be eligible for ad revenue.
ProZD shared his thoughts on the recent change, stating, “It’s about time.”
Kavanagh explains that YouTube initially restricted monetization for videos with swearing at the beginning to adhere to broadcast standards. However, as advertiser expectations evolved, YouTube now allows ads to be served alongside content with profanity, as advertisers can target their ads based on the level of profanity present.
While Kavanagh specifically mentions “fuck” as an example of strong profanity, he notes that YouTube considers words like “asshole” or “bitch” as moderate profanity. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the use of profanity in titles and thumbnails to maintain monetization eligibility.
YouTube will still restrict monetization for videos with a high frequency of strong profanity in line with its advertiser-friendly content guidelines. Kavanagh advises content creators to be selective in their use of profanity to avoid violations of the platform’s policies.
