How to protect personal information on Twitch. For some, Twitch streaming brings fame and fortune. The platform’s genre diversity has long transcended the boundaries of video games: artists, athletes and even bicycle couriers have all found appreciative audiences. From professional gamers to guitarists, all are united by the desire to connect with fans and earn a crust without falling victim to bullies, pranksters or spammers.Â
- Set up separate accounts specifically for Twitch that won’t point to the real you in search results, social media or forums.
- Your Twitch handle should not be your actual name, or even resemble it. This tip will be a recurring theme throughout this post: there is no need whatsoever for your fans to know your name or where you live. Use profile pics that are completely different from the ones on your social networks – similar photos are easy to find.
- Twitch-related accounts (profiles on Discord, social networks, etc.) must be registered under your Twitch handle and not give away your real name. If you already have personal accounts on Twitter, YouTube and the like, do not use them in conjunction with Twitch, but create new ones.
- We recommend that active streamers use a separate email and phone number that are linked only to accounts used for streaming (Twitch, Discord, YouTube, etc.).
- If you accept snail mail (fan letters/gifts, etc.), set up a PO Box. And do not use the box for any other purpose. In some countries, a PO Box can be set up under any name, in which case use your Twitch handle. If that’s not an option and you need to give out personal information, ask the post office if there’s a way to avoid revealing your real name.
- If Twitch becomes a regular source of income, consider setting up a legal entity and registering your domains, mailboxes and other assets under it.
- Check out our detailed guide to Twitch security and privacy settings.
- Use a strong unique password and two-factor authentication and install a comprehensive security solution for gamers on your computers that does not affect streaming and protects against phishing.