In a recent controversy surrounding online payment processor Stripe, several customers reported that LGBTQ+ content purchases were being prohibited by the company. This issue arose after gaming marketplaces Itch.io and Steam were pressured to remove adult video games from their platforms, including LGBTQ+ content, by payment processors like Stripe. It was alleged that Stripe’s customer service representatives had informed customers that they could not use the service for purchasing LGBTQ+ content, sparking concerns among users.
Independent journalist Mady Castigan shared a recording of her conversation with a Stripe representative, who stated that the company had restricted LGBTQ+ content purchases weeks prior. However, a spokesperson for Stripe later apologized, clarifying that the information provided by their support team was incorrect. The company does not have prohibitions on the sale of LGBTQ+ content or goods, and they are working to ensure that future inquiries are answered accurately.
While Stripe does ban the purchase of legal adult content through its services, it does not explicitly prohibit the purchase of LGBTQ+ content. This policy change was in response to pressure from Visa and Mastercard to remove adult content from platforms like Itch.io and Steam. The decision sparked backlash and raised concerns that other companies using Stripe’s services may follow suit.
The controversy also brought attention to the safety of non-adult LGBTQ+ content, with concerns raised about the impact on creators. The developer of a safe-for-work lesbian game voiced their frustrations over Itch.io’s decision to deindex adult games, affecting their livelihood. Despite claims of misinformation from Itch.io, the issue highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ creators in maintaining visibility for their work.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.