Square Enix safeguards staff amidst fan toxicity

Square Enix Unveils Robust Anti-Harassment Policy to Safeguard Employees and Partners

Square Enix has proactively introduced a comprehensive anti-harassment policy designed to protect its workforce and collaborators from online abuse and threats. The policy clearly defines unacceptable behavior, encompassing a range of actions from violent threats and defamation to persistent harassment and privacy violations. The company asserts its right to deny services and pursue legal action against individuals engaging in such conduct.

The policy's implementation reflects a growing concern within the gaming industry regarding online harassment. High-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats of violence, underscore the need for robust protective measures. Square Enix's policy aims to prevent similar situations from affecting its employees and partners.

The policy, detailed on the Square Enix website, covers a broad spectrum of harassment, including:

Harassment Examples:

• Threats or acts of violence
• Abusive language, intimidation, and coercion
• Defamation and personal attacks (across various online platforms)
• Persistent inquiries and repeated unwanted contact
• Unauthorized access to facilities (trespassing)
• Unlawful restraint through phone calls or online means
• Discriminatory remarks or actions based on protected characteristics
• Privacy violations (unauthorized photography or recording)
• Sexual harassment and stalking

Examples of Undue Demands:

• Unreasonable product exchanges or demands for monetary compensation
• Excessive requests for apologies or punishment of employees
• Requests for products or services exceeding reasonable norms

The policy empowers Square Enix to take decisive action, including service denial and legal recourse, against those exhibiting malicious intent. This proactive approach is a direct response to past incidents, including death threats against staff in 2018 and 2019, and highlights the company's commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for its team. The policy serves as a strong deterrent and a clear message that harassment will not be tolerated.