Requirements for user-generated content apps

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Created Sep ’16

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So I just came across the requirements for apps with user-generated content (https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/#user-generated-content), and had a few questions I’d like to post here to make sure my company's app doesn't get rejected.

The guidelines mention, “A method for filtering objectionable material from being posted to the app.” I imagine this would be an internal tool we use (our company's content team approving of user's uploads), but wanted to be sure it wasn’t something that needed to actually be in the app? How would this work in context of a user using the actual iOS app?

Also, how extensive do all these requirements need to be? Can I simply have a report button that notifies our internal team with them having the ability to then delete or hide the content, or do I have to make sure content does not show up anymore after user's report it. And also make sure users can't view other users after blocking them?

Thanks!

Best,

Elmir Kouliev

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Answer 1

KMT OP

Sep ’16

1) You need to provide a mechanism for users to flag/report (button) the content as objectionable, and then on the server end let a moderator view the same content. If it breaks your guidelines, then your moderator can delete the content and suspend the user; don't forget to hide the relevant content from the app's users.

2) Also clearly mention these guidelines in the terms and conditions, so that users can't upload data to the server without accepting/agreeing.

3.) Consider applying a 17+ rating.

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Answer 2

KKS OP

Sep ’16

Hi Elmir,

As KMT mentioned, if your app displays user-generated content, you must include a feature that can filter objectionable material, such as a mechanism for users to flag offensive content, and the ability to block abusive users from the app.

Filtering content created by your app is a detail you might not want to tackle on your own. If that is the case and you are looking for an easy and fast way into the app store I suggest you look at a third party solution that can handle that for you and reduce your human moderation cost. If interested check out CleanSpeak (https://www.inversoft.com/products/profanity-filter).

Good luck!

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