Explicit videos on Spotify? Platform faces backlash over search results

It all started when a Reddit user shared a screenshot showing what appeared to be a “pornographic video tucked into suggested results for the rapper M.I.A.”. The discovery quickly gained attention, prompting Spotify to take action.

A Spotify spokesperson addressed the situation, stating, “This content has been removed due to violation of its policies.”

Unwanted surprises in search and playlists

Spotify’s policies explicitly prohibit sexually explicit material, including “pornography or visual depictions of genitalia or nudity presented for the purpose of sexual gratification.” However, recent Reddit posts revealed that users have encountered unexpected explicit videos in search results and even erotic audio tracks sneaking into personalised playlists like Discovery Weekly.

This isn’t the first time the platform has faced such issues. A Vice story in 2022 highlighted that some users had attempted to upload hardcore sexual content to Spotify. The latest incident has reignited concerns about how effectively the platform can moderate its vast library of content.

Even with Spotify’s explicit content filter turned on, it seems some searches are slipping through the cracks. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the platform’s content-blocking settings.

Despite these challenges, Spotify remains a juggernaut in the audio streaming industry. Launched in 2008, the platform offers more than 100 million tracks, 6 million podcast titles, and 350,000 audiobooks. Its global popularity is unmatched, with over 640 million monthly active users and 252 million premium subscribers across 180 markets as of Q3 2024.