YouTube's AI moderation system has removed videos demonstrating workarounds for installing Windows 11 with a local account or on unsupported hardware. Tech YouTuber Rich White, known as CyberCPU Tech, reported on 2023-10-26 that his tutorial on installing Windows 11 25H2 with a local account was taken down. According to YouTube, the video could potentially lead to 'serious harm or even death.'
Creators Face Content Removal
Other creators echoed White's experience, facing removals shortly after posting similar content. Appeals to YouTube were reportedly dismissed within minutes, often without human intervention. Despite the removals, creators argue these workarounds are non-dangerous and legal, as they primarily risk only system misconfigurations.
White speculated that Microsoft's recent efforts to tighten installation restrictions might indirectly influence these removals, although he does not believe Microsoft directed YouTube's actions. The central issue remains AI's overzealous content flagging and a lack of human resources for appeal evaluations.
Calls for Clarity
The inconsistency in content moderation has led to a chilling effect among YouTube's creator community. The fear of unintentional violations has discouraged some creators from sharing potentially useful content. White and others call for transparency and better communication from YouTube, asking for clear guidelines and reversal of unwarranted video takedowns.
- Rich White's video removed on 2023-10-26.
- YouTube cited potential for serious harm in cover letter for removals.
- Creators argue the AI system is inappropriately flagging content.
- Appeals process reportedly lacks adequate human evaluation.
- Creators seek clarity and better review processes.
