Urge YouTube to Implement Felony Background Checks for Creators

Recent signers:
Brandi Thebo and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

The digital landscape has transformed how we consume information and entertainment, with platforms like YouTube leading the way. However, it's crucial that the creators who are shaping opinions and influencing millions are held to high standards of integrity and responsibility.

I am deeply concerned about the presence of individuals on YouTube whose past criminal records and misconduct raise questions about their suitability to influence a global audience. With a platform as powerful as YouTube, it is unacceptable that individuals with a history of serious felony offenses can so easily reach and potentially harm vast audiences. My personal motivation for this campaign stems from observing an alarming rise in bullying, harassment, and misinformation, often propagated by creators who have criminal pasts. This undermines the safety and reliability of content on YouTube.

YouTube, as a leader in the digital space, has a responsibility to create a safe online environment. Implementing a mandatory background check for serious felony offenses within the past 5 years for all creators could be a pivotal step in safeguarding viewers and maintaining the integrity of the platform. By requiring verification of a clean criminal background without any recent serious felonies, YouTube can limit the influence of potentially harmful individuals and prioritize the well-being of their community.

Implementing this measure would involve collaborating with reputable background check firms and establishing a transparent process for all current and prospective creators. This could not only reduce negative interactions but also increase trust among viewers who consume content on the platform daily.

I urge you to consider the significance of this proposal, for it not only protects viewers but also supports the many creators who consistently adhere to ethical standards. Let's insist on a safer YouTube for everyone. Sign this petition to demand background checks for all YouTube creators.

avatar of the starter
Ryan DubePetition Starter

65

Recent signers:
Brandi Thebo and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

The digital landscape has transformed how we consume information and entertainment, with platforms like YouTube leading the way. However, it's crucial that the creators who are shaping opinions and influencing millions are held to high standards of integrity and responsibility.

I am deeply concerned about the presence of individuals on YouTube whose past criminal records and misconduct raise questions about their suitability to influence a global audience. With a platform as powerful as YouTube, it is unacceptable that individuals with a history of serious felony offenses can so easily reach and potentially harm vast audiences. My personal motivation for this campaign stems from observing an alarming rise in bullying, harassment, and misinformation, often propagated by creators who have criminal pasts. This undermines the safety and reliability of content on YouTube.

YouTube, as a leader in the digital space, has a responsibility to create a safe online environment. Implementing a mandatory background check for serious felony offenses within the past 5 years for all creators could be a pivotal step in safeguarding viewers and maintaining the integrity of the platform. By requiring verification of a clean criminal background without any recent serious felonies, YouTube can limit the influence of potentially harmful individuals and prioritize the well-being of their community.

Implementing this measure would involve collaborating with reputable background check firms and establishing a transparent process for all current and prospective creators. This could not only reduce negative interactions but also increase trust among viewers who consume content on the platform daily.

I urge you to consider the significance of this proposal, for it not only protects viewers but also supports the many creators who consistently adhere to ethical standards. Let's insist on a safer YouTube for everyone. Sign this petition to demand background checks for all YouTube creators.

avatar of the starter
Ryan DubePetition Starter

The Decision Makers

Youtube Board of Directors
Youtube Board of Directors
YouTube Trust and Safety Team
YouTube Trust and Safety Team
Google UK
Google UK

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Petition created on October 17, 2025