Being a creator is a very rewarding experience, but it doesn’t come without risks. Bad actors on the internet can dox you, scam you, stalk you, or spread misinformation about you, along with a host of other things.
Arguably, it’s become especially difficult for women to create on the internet. The rise of AI has led to some users creating deepfake pornography using creators’ likenesses. Fans also cross physical boundaries, making home security a vital concern for large creators. One Twitch streamer is putting thousands of dollars on the line to stop this from happening.
Pokimane, real name Imane Anys, is one of the most popular female streamers in the world. She has over 9.3 million followers on Twitch and is so renowned she even attended the Grammys. But all this fame comes with a price.
In a podcast interview with Colin and Samir, Anys revealed that she spends “five figures plus” on various companies to fight back against attempts at doxxing, creating deepfakes, using her likeness, and “misusing” her name.
“To be honest, there are just new problems now that didn’t exist five years ago,” she said. “I didn’t have a problem with people misusing me in AI or even using my voice in AI in ways I didn’t consent to, or commercial uses or what have you.”
She also claimed that she has employees who “scour” the internet to check if her address leaked.
Moreover, for Anys, her fame also means she has to live in a very specific way. “As much as I wish I could live in a house or live with other people, I just can’t,” she explained. “I have to live in a building with some level of security or front door, or what have you.”
The fact that Pokimane must go to these lengths is a sad reminder of the reality some creators face. It’s also a helpful example of why creators need to lock down their personal information early. You never know when your audience will grow. Keep yourself secure.
