Habbo caught up in child sex scandal / Habbo Mute

[Bob1]

No way did you really write that? I searched Habbo on Tumblr last night and came across this, it was a really good read! You should write for HX News or something :P. I loveee the last line so much ~!!

Thanks! Yeah I wrote it, logged on to find out what all the fuss was about and was muted so took my frustration out on tumblr lol. Figured I'd post it here, Habbox news site was the only fansite I remembered, I'm interested in what other people think, I might be a little bias...

[Kardan]

Apparently muted because of a few users so why don't they ban or mute them,.they must know who they are.otherwise they can't be certain its a few. It's inefficient and the new habbo helpers scheme does nothing,what's there to achieve apart from badges and abuse of it.

These people that are purposefully looking for children have throw away accounts. They're not regular players of Habbo that have rooms or masses of furniture. Once their account gets banned, they'll just create another one. The cycle will just continue. They somehow need to come up with a better solution of just banning these accounts, as it's obviously not working.

[Mathew]

He's mucking out the horses stable by shovelling the manure in his own front door.
Gotta hand it to you, that's a damn good metaphor.


Despite the “very sexual, perverse, violent, pornographic” conversations uncovered, some users attacked Channel 4 News. Oliver King (https://twitter.com/#%21/oliverjamesking), its programme editor, was bombarded with abusive messages on Twitter from irate Habbos after conversations were shut down on the network.



“Being trolled by idiots for retweeting about a brilliant C4 News investigation I didn’t write/report about how Habbo site is unsafe for kids,” he wrote.
I'm not a fan of this guy's attitude.

I haven't received any invites since I've been online so I'm guessing they've blocked those from coming through too!

[Astronomist]

I dont understand why they cant just mute people that havent been a member of the community for over a year... the ones that do the secksual *REMOVED* are usually on accounts under 1 year old.

Off topic: Kardan aren't you the guy that did that LovePanda thing?

Edited by Martin (Forum Super Moderator): Please do not avoid the filter!

[Xedia]

It's sad that a big news report has to draw attention to the discusting behaviour of a few members of Habbo, for Sulake to take "action" against them. They should have had this sorted long ago, but they were too busy releasing vibrating furniture.

[Hiro]

In the news report it states that children as young as 8 are playing Habbo, then this is a parental issue.

"1.4 You must be 13 years or older to use the Website. By registering for the Website, you represent and warrant that you are 13 or older and that you understand, agree to and comply with these Specific Terms."

Sure the moderation could be better, but it clearly states you have to be 13 or older, probably why they changed the story from an 11 year old to a 13 year old.

[xxMATTGxx]

Computer game chain GAME have now withdrawn #habbohotel cards from sale following our investigation
They join Tesco & WHSmith
#c4news

http://twitter.com/ paraicobrien/status/212862504743874560

[scottish]

Stop putting a ******* space after twitter.com :\

[David]

whats the latest news on the mute
cba reading the thread

[xxMATTGxx]

Stop putting a ******* space after twitter.com :\

im on my phone and cba correcting mistakes.

[Xedia]

whats the latest news on the mute
cba reading the thread

Nothing. Still muted, still no news. :)

[Bob1]

Computer game chain GAME have now withdrawn #habbohotel cards from sale following our investigation
They join Tesco & WHSmith
#c4news
http://twitter.com/ paraicobrien/status/212862504743874560

This is what happens when a business fails to respond quickly and sufficiently to a problem, silence is not a response (literally in this case), the mute does nothing but keep highlighting the problem, the protests would have died down by now. It's now bound to be on channel 4 news again tonight as a follow up and rather than giving them something positive to report on it'll be another negative due to the idiotic way the company is handling it. That could cause more investors, sponsors and partners to pull out.

[Kardan]

I dont understand why they cant just mute people that havent been a member of the community for over a year... the ones that do the secksual *REMOVED* are usually on accounts under 1 year old.

Off topic: Kardan aren't you the guy that did that LovePanda thing?

That would be a good idea, but you can never be completely sure. And yes, I am.

[DPS]

I am greatly saddened that following reports of abusive behaviors amongst a very small part of the Habbo community we have taken the decision to mute all conversations across the site.
We are still reviewing our long-term plans for the Habbo community, and would like to thank our millions of loyal users for their support at this challenging time. This decision has not been taken lightly and underlines the company’s continuing commitment to ensure that all our site users remain safeguarded from inappropriate behavior and conversations.
Our internal investigation is currently on-going, but we will be sure to inform all users of further developments in the coming days and weeks.
In the meantime, my thanks for your patience and understanding.

http://blog.habbo.com/2012/06/13/a-message-to-the-habbo-community-from-the-ceo/#respond

posted 6 mins ago


Looks like this is going to be a long mute ;/ "days and weeks"


Threads merged by Jordan (Forum Super Moderator): Due to same topic being discussed

[DPS]

Guys now you have to remember theres only atleast one mod online.. at the same time ;/

This is why we have been muted ^ because one mod cant do the job lol

BRING BACK HOBBAS!

[lawrawrrr]

I don't think the mute will go on for weeks, possibly another few days max (surely...). It is true what he says, that it's a very small part of the Habbo community ruining it for everyone, which really sucks! Hope he doesn't end up resigning/being fired, i really like him...

[DPS]

I don't think the mute will go on for weeks, possibly another few days max (surely...). It is true what he says, that it's a very small part of the Habbo community ruining it for everyone, which really sucks! Hope he doesn't end up resigning/being fired, i really like him...

They could atleast freeze VIP tbh, and release that new game.

Saying that i logged into Habbo dismorning and it said play fast food game for free :)

[scottish]

logic not to post this in the existing 28 page thread regarding the mute would be?

mute will go off today and they'll investigate an appropriate way to deal with the issue no doubt in the coming weeks (i.e. hire mods)

[Kardan]

The mute will be in place until Sulake can sort the problem out.

[scottish]

Presumably "sort the problem out" means hire moderators?

[DPS]

Presumably "sort the problem out" means hire moderators?

They need to bring back Hobbas

[Dj-Pied]

I blame the neo-nazi mods, they've made habbo about as stable as Uganda.

You see, habbo is like a political state so we need policing but our "mods" are incompetent which makes habbo a time bomb that will implode in about 3/4 weeks.

[auffant1]

Aww I really hope it doesn't last long.

[Xedia]

"Tesco, WH Smith and GAME stop selling Habbo gift cards after Channel 4 News uncovers lapses in the moderation of an online game for teenagers, including interactions of an explicit sexual nature."

Oh dear :P

[MKR&*42]

oh dear Lord, GAME and WHSmith pulled out as well?

Going well. I really wanna go see if this is in any newspaper irl (minus the telegraph or dailymail 'cause I think we've been told about that)

[scottish]

They need to bring back Hobbas

That won't ever happen, fairly sure it was removed due to security concerns first time so no chance it'd come back now.

[Niall!]

It's such a shame. As an older player I recently got back into habbo for the casinos. I doubt I'll ever go back now.

[DPS]

That won't ever happen, fairly sure it was removed due to security concerns first time so no chance it'd come back now.

Yeah removed because they always used to get Hacked. But they could change it up abit imo, so they only have like say a mute tool, to mute people that are doing things they shouldnt.

[Matt]

http://i.imgur.com/QfBHz.png

Welcome Lounge memorial :3 It's a once in a habbo-time occasion. I was in there for 10 minutes and the only person to speak was Frank. It was brilliant. Everyone was carrying a Torch to remember our voices. lmao

[scottish]

That's ultimately the plan with the habbo helpers, the ability to mute isn't it?

[mrwoooooooo]

They may as well just close the hotel instead of muting everyone.

[DPS]

That's ultimately the plan with the habbo helpers, the ability to mute isn't it?

Yeah but then there going to have so many people going round doing it, like 12 year olds and stuff ;s thats just stupid.

They need to invest in a better system.

[Zak]

This is the price Habbo pay for exploiting flirty behaviour for $$$, poor moderation over many years and not giving a **** what its community thought. I hope it does shut down, good riddance.

[Kasabian]

Due to poor moderation, even more habbo history will be lost.

RIP Henrique.

[wixard]

im gonna take my own life in a minute
this is my day off work
UNMUTE

[Wyked]

Has anyone else seen these "Score in habbo ;)" advertisements on other websites? I thought they were rather inappropriate due to the target audience, they seem to have been pulled after this report by Channel 4, as I'm normally seeing a fair few on websites every day.

[scottish]

I doubt everyone will have it and there'll be specific criteria to have the ability to mute and such.

So might need to have an account for the Habbo XX badge (think its like 1825 days? so 5 years), so the younger people will be unable to do it.

[MKR&*42]

Genuinel;y didn't think anything of the sort would be a front=page story. Then I saw the Daily Mail's front page lol:

http://i.imgur.com/jbio1.png

http://i.imgur.com/bYyBG.png

There's a pic of a strip room in Habbo in there lol. It might have been on the telegraph but I'm not sure xD. One of the things said in the Daily Mail though "On average. one child in every 20 was a victim of sexual abuse online". If that's true, mega cringe :S. Also "his organisation is now distributing films to schools aimed at children between ages 5 to 8".

LOL oh dear, it's on page 8 of the "I" as well:

http://i.imgur.com/QKTCp.png

[DPS]

I doubt everyone will have it and there'll be specific criteria to have the ability to mute and such.

So might need to have an account for the Habbo XX badge (think its like 1825 days? so 5 years), so the younger people will be unable to do it.

Well i just hope they do something fast, they could atleast freeze VIP and release that new game lol

[lawrawrrr]

With Hobbas, or a similar system, they could always learn from the past mistakes - the hacking issue can be resolved now due to the account lock (could be compulsory for all of them), and give them less powers to start with.

[DPS]

With Hobbas, or a similar system, they could always learn from the past mistakes - the hacking issue can be resolved now due to the account lock (could be compulsory for all of them), and give them less powers to start with.

So true lol, because one mod on at once isnt doing much.

[sex]

They just didn't want to give them access to housekeeping as it was too much of a concern, also the thing with them having player info in housekeeping when they weren't even working for Habbo.

But they should 100% bring back mods and staff who are actually apart of the community and know a fansite from a scam site.

[lawrawrrr]

They just didn't want to give them access to housekeeping as it was too much of a concern, also the thing with them having player info in housekeeping when they weren't even working for Habbo.

But they should 100% bring back mods and staff who are actually apart of the community and know a fansite from a scam site.

They wouldn't even need access to housekeeping would they? If they could just respond to messages/reports and sort out the serious from the jokes, then pass them on to real mods?

[Xedia]

Atleast fast food is out now. :)

[lawrawrrr]

Has anyone else seen these "Score in habbo ;)" advertisements on other websites? I thought they were rather inappropriate due to the target audience, they seem to have been pulled after this report by Channel 4, as I'm normally seeing a fair few on websites every day.

Yes! I saw one with a bacon in a bikini and shorts winking, and i think the caption was 'meet sexy singles today' or something along those lines. It was on miniclip, kongregate or bubblebox, a site really aimed at younger children, which I thought was completely inappropriate. They shouldn't be advertising dating or sexy singles AT ALL, let alone bringing out 'kissing booth' furni.

At the end of the day though, if the parents see adverts like this, why would they even let their child go on it? As much as I think the mods and Sulake could have done MUCH more to prevent and deal with this, it's also the parent's fault. If an under 18 year old signs up for Habbo, they're meant to tell their parents and ask for permission, and while I realise this doesn't always happen, it's still the parent's responsibility for allowing their child to have a webcam, not teaching them proper web safety and not monitoring what they're doing.

[Niall!]

Also, I don't know if this has been pointed out but I think they changed the "I posed as an 11-year-old" thing to 13 is because it clearly says in the T&C you have to be 13+ to play.


Yes! I saw one with a bacon in a bikini and shorts winking, and i think the caption was 'meet sexy singles today' or something along those lines. It was on miniclip, kongregate or bubblebox, a site really aimed at younger children, which I thought was completely inappropriate. They shouldn't be advertising dating or sexy singles AT ALL, let alone bringing out 'kissing booth' furni.

At the end of the day though, if the parents see adverts like this, why would they even let their child go on it? As much as I think the mods and Sulake could have done MUCH more to prevent and deal with this, it's also the parent's fault. If an under 18 year old signs up for Habbo, they're meant to tell their parents and ask for permission, and while I realise this doesn't always happen, it's still the parent's responsibility for allowing their child to have a webcam, not teaching them proper web safety and not monitoring what they're doing.

I doubt half the parents know what kids do on computers. Mine certainly didn't know what I was up to when I was younger.

[lawrawrrr]

Genuinel;y didn't think anything of the sort would be a front=page story. Then I saw the Daily Mail's front page lol:

http://i.imgur.com/jbio1.png

http://i.imgur.com/bYyBG.png

There's a pic of a strip room in Habbo in there lol. It might have been on the telegraph but I'm not sure xD. One of the things said in the Daily Mail though "On average. one child in every 20 was a victim of sexual abuse online". If that's true, mega cringe :S. Also "his organisation is now distributing films to schools aimed at children between ages 5 to 8".

LOL oh dear, it's on page 8 of the "I" as well:

http://i.imgur.com/QKTCp.png

these headlines crack me up... soooo grossly exaggerated it's ridiculous! Habbo isn't a PORN site fgs! I know that all news is made out to seem worse than it really is, especially exposes such as this, but it's not fair that a tiny group of people in a community of millions ruin it for everyone else. I've literally been fuming since yesterday.

[lawrawrrr]

Reportedly Sulake’s board of directors, on which a now former major investor sat, were given the opportunity to read the report before it’s airing on Channel 4 and it was their passive response that caused the investor to pull out. While it is arguable the report was sensationalised to make it news worthy and it is obvious all similar services face these problems it is how they deal with them, even now as all the Habbo sites enter 3 and a half hours of mute the response reeks of window dressing, damage limitation, adding further distance between the moderation and the community rather than a radical alteration of attitude and policy that is clearly needed to actually address a problem that could keep getting bigger. My suggestion is Habbo look to the past, remember that community is at its core, to move forward.


please please i'm begging you join news


ANYWAY

this paragraph i can't belive! Passive?!? It's a massive deal! I can't believe they'd do that in all honesty, are they idiots?!

I agree that Habbo need to take examples and ideas from the past in order to create a better system for everyone.

[Grig]

that's cause you're reading the Daily Fail...

[lawrawrrr]

Also, I don't know if this has been pointed out but I think they changed the "I posed as an 11-year-old" thing to 13 is because it clearly says in the T&C you have to be 13+ to play.



I doubt half the parents know what kids do on computers. Mine certainly didn't know what I was up to when I was younger.

Me too, but it's still their legal responsibility to know, and agree to the T&C. It's not sulake's fault, it's the child for disobeying the rules....

[Red]

What the at that newspaper. ;/ This is getting blown so out of proportion and I'm starting to feel kinda sorry for Sulake. That sort of behaviour goes on on a lot of teen sites and it makes me angry how bias the report was. No denying it though, they should have been deleting those rooms. The new habbo way was an absolute joke and they just continued to promote it by adding a dating category to the nav, provocative clothing, bling beds and kissing booths. Costs should not have been cut from moderation. We have all been moaning at them to hire back proper moderation and instead Paul blabbered on about making habbos the stars and releasing statements on his blog about how great the moderators are.... major ops moment for Paul.

[Niall!]

Me too, but it's still their legal responsibility to know, and agree to the T&C. It's not sulake's fault, it's the child for disobeying the rules....
But children won't stop disobeying the rules, it's kinda what they do. Do remember most children these days as young as 10 are for more competent using computers than a lot of adults. This is one thing that causes a huge problem; a child or teen asks for a webcam to talk to friends the parents have no idea what else they could be doing with it.

[MKR&*42]

Oh wow, they seriously had an advert saying that? I don't see their ads anymore 'cause of AdBlock but I would have been horrified if I had a child who'd seen that ad. and been inclined to go on the game.

Shudder-

[Geiranger]

An update has been received from the CEO on the Habbo Blog Website.

[lawrawrrr]

But children won't stop disobeying the rules, it's kinda what they do. Do remember most children these days as young as 10 are for more competent using computers than a lot of adults. This is one thing that causes a huge problem; a child or teen asks for a webcam to talk to friends the parents have no idea what else they could be doing with it.


But it's not fair to blame everything on Sulake. When I was younger (i know things were different then), my mum used to make us use the laptop or computer so the screen faces inwards (so we can't hide things). Parents who are that concerend about paedos on the internet need to teach their children about it, it's just incompetence. They see something like this on the news, they can google, call help lines or even go straight to Habbo (or even call the school, i think schools should teach more about internet safety really) - there are so many books teaching about dangers of the internet. Webcams imo should be STRCITLY monitored by parents. I very very rarely use mine, and when I was younger, we had a webcam but we were only allowed it so they could see what we were doing.

[scottish]

thing is though

channel 4 are taking everyone that engages in 'cyber' with that person (or their own fake accounts for the news report) are pedos, when in 99.99999999999999999999999999% of cases the person on the other end will be another 11-13 year old as well... (at least I ******* hope so judging by their spelling).

[GommeInc]

Sure the moderation could be better, but it clearly states you have to be 13 or older, probably why they changed the story from an 11 year old to a 13 year old.
C4 News are sticking by the original report producer's falsified age of 11. It's other media that is going by the age of 13 (no idea why).

Also, age is irrelevant. Under the age of 16 you shouldn't be exposed to such language or action. So if users are 13, 11 or even 8, it's still completely unacceptable. Moderators should be looking out for clear violations, regardless of age. Habbo is entirely at fault for not protecting their users by giving them a duty of care, and parents are also at fault for not moderating their children - although arguably it is not entirely their fault as they were not taught of internet safety - heck, their children aren't either.

EDIT: Also, the Faily Dail newspaper article isn't about Habbo Hotel - it's about online porn affecting children. It looks like something they've been hiding for special occasions like this. The part about Habbo is a sub-article.

[Bob1]

They see something like this on the news, they can google, call help lines or even go straight to Habbo (or even call the school, i think schools should teach more about internet safety really) - there are so many books teaching about dangers of the internet. Webcams imo should be STRCITLY monitored by parents. I very very rarely use mine, and when I was younger, we had a webcam but we were only allowed it so they could see what we were doing.

I agree, parents can't be ignorant to dangers online, however when their child signs up to a moderated service you assume a degree of safety?
Rules are there to be broken, when I was involved with Sulake the mention of any webcam or cam words immediately flagged up for a team of moderators whose job it was to watch potentially inappropriate chat through a tie-in system known as George, this system flagged up long line numbers (phone numbers), anyone giving out an email address, etc etc. The calls for help and player support efforts were dealt with by different MODs and users could be flagged to be watched by the George team. I think the relaxation of some rules and regs with regards to other social media, webcams, in-game links, is a hot bed for predatory behaviour and makes moderation complicated as potential flags get lost over many sites - this is where Habbo have gone wrong, Paul said in a statement they discourage people from giving contact details or moving from Habbo onto MSN to chat - then why allow people to give out emails, skype, links etc. Habbo 3-4 years ago was so tight on this area!

[Geiranger]

I honestly think this could go on for weeks! And I think that bans will take place. Also Tesco have withdrawn from selling Habbo gift cards.

[Tomm]

It is not on the front page. The article on the front page is talking about a report from the Deputy Children's Commissioner. The Habbo bit is not on the front page and is a separate article in itself. The placement of the article is a bit inappropriate but that is what you get for reading terrible publications like the daily mail.

I unfortunately went on the Daily Mail website and found the online version of the article you posted and found it next to a big message in blocks caps saying "BLOCK ONLINE PORN". Totally seems non-biased.

Seems a bit disappointing that a news reporter can't see through the obvious tricks the newspaper is using and why they placed the article about Habbo where they did.


Genuinel;y didn't think anything of the sort would be a front=page story. Then I saw the Daily Mail's front page lol:

http://i.imgur.com/jbio1.png

http://i.imgur.com/bYyBG.png

There's a pic of a strip room in Habbo in there lol. It might have been on the telegraph but I'm not sure xD. One of the things said in the Daily Mail though "On average. one child in every 20 was a victim of sexual abuse online". If that's true, mega cringe :S. Also "his organisation is now distributing films to schools aimed at children between ages 5 to 8".

LOL oh dear, it's on page 8 of the "I" as well:

http://i.imgur.com/QKTCp.png

[Xedia]

I'm not expecting anything to have changed after the mute is lifted. Habbo will always be full of bed rooms, strip clubs etc. Sulake don't care about safety enough, all they see is money money money.

I just seen the slogan for Fast Food Lol.

http://i.imgur.com/cTV75.png

Hmm, What does that remind me of?

[Niall!]

But it's not fair to blame everything on Sulake. When I was younger (i know things were different then), my mum used to make us use the laptop or computer so the screen faces inwards (so we can't hide things). Parents who are that concerend about paedos on the internet need to teach their children about it, it's just incompetence. They see something like this on the news, they can google, call help lines or even go straight to Habbo (or even call the school, i think schools should teach more about internet safety really) - there are so many books teaching about dangers of the internet. Webcams imo should be STRCITLY monitored by parents. I very very rarely use mine, and when I was younger, we had a webcam but we were only allowed it so they could see what we were doing.

I'm not putting 100% of the blame on Sulake, not by a long shot. There's only so much that can be done to stop sexual comments/activities on habbo (yes, even with the moderation of old it still went on in droves) but outsourcing your moderation and relying on an imperfect filter system is not the way to begin doing so. That said, that's all that Sulake can really be blamed for and probably what the news will focus on.

The thing about teaching kids about online safety in schools and via parents has just one problem; in school when you were younger did you honestly listen to anything your teacher said not to do? Infact, didn't it just tempt you to try it because it was taboo? Parents are the same thing. I never listened to my parents because of course I was a teenager. There's nothing that can be done via these methods I'm afraid unless you're planning to get graphic and show them the direct results of these goings on. That would scar them for life however so it's a shaky path at best.

[MKR&*42]

It is not on the front page. The article on the front page is talking about a report from the Deputy Children's Commissioner. The Habbo bit is not on the front page and was likely added after the original article was written. The placement of the article is a bit inappropriate but that is what you get for reading terrible publications like the daily mail.

I unfortunately went on the Daily Mail website and found the online version of the article you posted and found it next to a big message in blocks caps saying "BLOCK ONLINE PORN". Totally seems non-biased.

Seems a bit disappointing that a news reporter can't see through the obvious tricks the newspaper is using and why they placed the article about Habbo where they did.

I do not often read the daily mail (only newspaper i read is my local one and the "I" now and then) and I was simply posting it for the sake of what this entire thread is about? It's clearly over-exaggerated and the "Block Online Porn" is placed inside as well directly below the image of Habbo lol. The bit about Habbo itself is mainly what has been repeated from channel 4 tbf.

[lawrawrrr]

I agree, parents can't be ignorant to dangers online, however when their child signs up to a moderated service you assume a degree of safety?
Rules are there to be broken, when I was involved with Sulake the mention of any webcam or cam words immediately flagged up for a team of moderators whose job it was to watch potentially innappropriate chat through a tie-in system known as George, this system flagged up long line numbers (phone numbers), anyone giving out an email address, etc etc. The calls for help and player support efforts were dealt with by different MODs and users could be flagged to be watched by the George team. I think the relaxation of some rules and regs with regards to other social media, webcams, in-game links, is a hot bed for preadatory behaviour and makes moderation complicated as potential flags get lost over many sites - this is where Habbo have gone wrong, Paul said in a statement they discourage people from giving contact details or moving from Habbo onto MSN to chat - then why allow people to give out emails, skype, links etc. Habbo 3-4 years ago was so tight on this area!

You do expect a certain degree, I agree - the mods should ahve done something about the cybering inside the hotel... but i don't see how it's Habbo's fault when a child decides to bare all (literally) on webcam. They already block giving out email addresses in one block, and even numbers, but they can't exactly block every letter that spells 'hotmail', especially if someone decides to ask for help with adding their hotmail account to a Habbo ID, for example. They can't stop people typing numbers either. I do agree links have caused more trouble than they're worth though, tbh.

---------- Post added 13-06-2012 at 02:31 PM ----------


I'm not putting 100% of the blame on Sulake, not by a long shot. There's only so much that can be done to stop sexual comments/activities on habbo (yes, even with the moderation of old it still went on in droves) but outsourcing your moderation and relying on an imperfect filter system is not the way to begin doing so. That said, that's all that Sulake can really be blamed for and probably what the news will focus on.

The thing about teaching kids about online safety in schools and via parents has just one problem; in school when you were younger did you honestly listen to anything your teacher said not to do? Infact, didn't it just tempt you to try it because it was taboo? Parents are the same thing. I never listened to my parents because of course I was a teenager. There's nothing that can be done via these methods I'm afraid unless you're planning to get graphic and show them the direct results of these goings on. That would scar them for life however so it's a shaky path at best.

I didn't mean you necessarily, just anyone. Mods do need to tighten up and if it is true they saw the report and did nothing about it, then it is a bit shocking. But the news has been doing it for years, exaggerating claims and driving perfectly respectably companies in to the ground. I get 'propositioned' on a near-daily basis on facebook, where's the news that it should be shut down eh???

I think teachers saying OLD MEN WANT TO RAPE YOU would probably sink in to children... I think they should educate, not tell what to do. I never listened to my parents either, but I did pay attention when they said to be wary of padeos. I used to be banned from social networking sites, and as I couldn't use the internet alone, I did avoid them. However, when they were out or I got my own laptop, I did use Habbo and MySpace - but I was always aware of the dangers... when they found out and said 'you shouldn't be using them' i simply explained that if i got propositioned i would simply ignore it. I don't understand how an 11 year old thinks it's perfectly acceptable to get naked so someone else can see you.

[Red]

Days and Weeks... :( Really hope it doesn't last that long. Don't think they should bring back hobbas or xs. Both were flawed systems. They should be hiring back proper moderation though and maybe the return of the filter.

[GommeInc]

Presumably "sort the problem out" means hire moderators?
Possibly more - scrap some features that seem to promote sexual activity (I assume these discussions about vibrating furniture are real :P), re-write a system that analyses discussions in real time and probably promote new safety features in the game. It wouldn't surprise me if the Bobba filter is reinstated. Hiring moderators is just one thing out of many, training them how to write and respond to concerns is another.

[TonyBest]

the filter never left though, we just had the option to turn it off

[scottish]

Days and Weeks... :( Really hope it doesn't last that long. Don't think they should bring back hobbas or xs. Both were flawed systems. They should be hiring back proper moderation though and maybe the return of the filter.

The filter still exists?

Forcing it again would just be stupid.

[Plebings]

are the cards being withdrawn even a big issue? the only main problem with it is that it shows how bad sulake's reputation is, i can't really imagine the cards being a big seller.

once the media have got off sulake's back they can begin to improve their rep.

reminds me of my old job actually, we had to remove all the duck products because there was a documentary on the cruel conditions ducks are put though the night before. didn't take long before they were put back on the shelves of course.

[scottish]

Doubt it i'm sure most people use phone to buy credits any ways.

They must be desperate for news tbh.

[Red]

Yea and it can be easily turned off. They are going to have to do something drastic to save their reputation which is in tatters.

[scottish]

Then it's not their fault the user turned their filter off?

doubt much will change.

[Bob1]

I don't really know how the system works now, it was quite a while ago I left Sulake, the system at the time seemed to work well and the management were proficient in methods aimed at preventing teens taking the behaviour to other sites where they were not protected, I only knew of a few "major problems" and they were dealt with very quickly. Something has gone wrong somewhere, either the old system needs updating because users that want to do this stuff have got cleverer at rule breaking and out grown the system or the new system simply isn't as good, I don't think whatever tools they're using are good enough for the low level of staff. I think the majority of what C4 reported were teens on teens but that just means paedophiles have an easier time hiding and easier time getting what they want, they need to stop that sort of behaviour between users. The problem for Habbo is that by allowing users to meet other users and give out details that mean they move onto unmoderated products it will be seen as a speed dating service for those with bad intentions.

[lawrawrrr]

Users shouldn't be able to turn the filter off until they're 18. I know that users can fake their ages, but if they're caught (which they wouldnt be) they could be punished....

[MKR&*42]

Users shouldn't be able to turn the filter off until they're 18. I know that users can fake their ages, but if they're caught (which they wouldnt be) they could be punished....

Yes but the filter also blocks out curse words, and many teenagers swear casually and aren't really fussed by that. I'm pretty sure quite a few would complain if they couldn't start "swear raging" because they have to be 18. It would minorly help the sexual thing if the filter was updated drastically lol.

I just want Bobba back :(.

[GommeInc]

Users shouldn't be able to turn the filter off until they're 18. I know that users can fake their ages, but if they're caught (which they wouldnt be) they could be punished....
They'll never be caught for something trivial as turning off the filter and being under 18 :P

Besides, removing the gift cards is quite a bold statement. It's one chunk of revenue and advertising gone, and the support from retailers. Isn't £10 for 80 credits really bad value come to think of it?


I just want Bobba back :(.
I quite liked it :P You got what someone meant when Bobba was every other word, and left an air of mystery :P

[Andii]

That won't ever happen, fairly sure it was removed due to security concerns first time so no chance it'd come back now.

Lol well when it comes back if it comes back we won't be able to continue our talks HABBic :(

[Niall!]

I didn't mean you necessarily, just anyone. Mods do need to tighten up and if it is true they saw the report and did nothing about it, then it is a bit shocking. But the news has been doing it for years, exaggerating claims and driving perfectly respectably companies in to the ground. I get 'propositioned' on a near-daily basis on facebook, where's the news that it should be shut down eh???

I think teachers saying OLD MEN WANT TO RAPE YOU would probably sink in to children... I think they should educate, not tell what to do. I never listened to my parents either, but I did pay attention when they said to be wary of padeos. I used to be banned from social networking sites, and as I couldn't use the internet alone, I did avoid them. However, when they were out or I got my own laptop, I did use Habbo and MySpace - but I was always aware of the dangers... when they found out and said 'you shouldn't be using them' i simply explained that if i got propositioned i would simply ignore it. I don't understand how an 11 year old thinks it's perfectly acceptable to get naked so someone else can see you.

The only problem with the OLD MEN WANT TO RAPE YOU stance is that eventually this will lead to the belief that everyone not a kid/teen online is a pedophile and will cause an even larger gap in any mixed age community, even things such as this forum. Obviously we all know each other here and I'm sure our younger members feel safe but just imagine if you had been taught from a young age that older people online are all shady and you find a forum like this where the age demo is roughly half teens/ half young adults would you be willing to sign up?

Obviously the route you're suggesting would be the safest route but we must learn to differentiate between someone like myself or Neversoft (I think he's over 18 anyway) or flyingjesus who are over 18 but use these spots to converse with a multitude of ages because we grew up using them and someone who is using something such as Habbo for dodgy reasons.

[lawrawrrr]

Yes but the filter also blocks out curse words, and many teenagers swear casually and aren't really fussed by that. I'm pretty sure quite a few would complain if they couldn't start "swear raging" because they have to be 18. It would minorly help the sexual thing if the filter was updated drastically lol.

I just want Bobba back :(.

imo teenagers shouldn't be introduced to swearing. It's terrible how dependent we are (as a society) on it. It's just not necessary. I really need to stop online, I don't swear irl (very rarely). If people had to type out sexual words with a dot in I think they'd get bored.


They'll never be caught for something trivial as turning off the filter and being under 18 :P

Besides, removing the gift cards is quite a bold statement. It's one chunk of revenue and advertising gone, and the support from retailers. Isn't £10 for 80 credits really bad value come to think of it?

But wouldn't it help the cybering thing, even a tiny bit?

All the credits are terrible value for money. LOL!

[MKR&*42]

imo teenagers shouldn't be introduced to swearing. It's terrible how dependent we are (as a society) on it. It's just not necessary. I really need to stop online, I don't swear irl (very rarely). If people had to type out sexual words with a dot in I think they'd get bored.



But wouldn't it help the cybering thing, even a tiny bit?

All the credits are terrible value for money. LOL!

I'm sure I saw something a while ago on TV that suggested swearing can help in 1 way because it vents anger verbally as opposed to someone physically hurting another person. Of course, that can't actually happen on the hotel (physical) but it certainly provides a small piece of logic for why people curse. You won't be able to stop teens being introduced to swearing, and quite often it occurs at a lot younger age now - think I first started when I was 8 lol because I got it from my mum and stepdad who both had an awful temper.

[GommeInc]

But wouldn't it help the cybering thing, even a tiny bit?

All the credits are terrible value for money. LOL!
Depends if they want to sink back into the past. Also, back when the filter was a permanent fixture, people would cyber-sex each other (four letter S word is filtered :() using creative language. Moderation (incl. moderators) needs to be smart. At the moment they're like the blind and deaf child sitter you get because they are cheap. They cannot hear or see what is going on around them and just let it go on by.

[scottish]

Needing to prove that users are 18 is just even more effort, and with habbos past with databases being leaked would you want them to hold information on your ID (driving license scan, etc)?

I sure as hell wouldn't.

How would they catch the people who are faking their age?

[lawrawrrr]

The only problem with the OLD MEN WANT TO RAPE YOU stance is that eventually this will lead to the believe that everyone not a kid/teen online is a pedophile and will cause an even larger gap in any mixed age community, even things such as this forum. Obviously we all know each other here and I'm sure our younger members feel safe but just imagine if you had been taught from a young age that older people online are all shady and you find a forum like this where the age demo is roughly half teens/ half young adults would you be willing to sign up?

Obviously the route you're suggesting would be the safest route but we must learn to differentiate between someone like myself or Neversoft (I think he's over 18 anyway) or flyingjesus who are over 18 but use these spots to converse with a multitude of ages because we grew up using them and someone who is using something such as Habbo for dodgy reasons.

I think that the 'everyone not a kid/teen is a paedo' stance is not necessarily a bad thing - it teaches children to be wary of anyone.

Hey i'm over 18! I'm not saying that it's right to accuse anyone, but I was talking to a 20 year old yesterday, I was wary of him and after a while he ended up asking for naked pictures. I know I'm technically an adult, but he could have contacted me when I was still a younger teenager.

[Smurfed-]

oh dear Lord, GAME and WHSmith pulled out as well?

Going well. I really wanna go see if this is in any newspaper irl (minus the telegraph or dailymail 'cause I think we've been told about that)

I was in WHSmith and Tesco today and the cards were still there. I was also looking through the newspapers and the story is in more newspapers then I would have thought.

[MKR&*42]

I was in WHSmith and Tesco today and the cards were still there. I was also looking through the newspapers and the story is in more newspapers then I would have thought.

I'd imagine it'd take a few days until all the cards were completely gone xD. Hi though Alex ;) x

[lawrawrrr]

I'm sure I saw something a while ago on TV that suggested swearing can help in 1 way because it vents anger verbally as opposed to someone physically hurting another person. Of course, that can't actually happen on the hotel (physical) but it certainly provides a small piece of logic for why people curse. You won't be able to stop teens being introduced to swearing, and quite often it occurs at a lot younger age now - think I first started when I was 8 lol because I got it from my mum and stepdad who both had an awful temper.

True, but tbh it just shows a lack of vocabulary. In my area, hardly anyone ever swears, and the less fortunate (for example some of the Jeremy Kyle cases) can't even get a sentence out without a curse of some form.


Depends if they want to sink back into the past. Also, back when the filter was a permanent fixture, people would cyber-sex each other (four letter S word is filtered :() using creative language. Moderation (incl. moderators) needs to be smart. At the moment they're like the blind and deaf child sitter you get because they are cheap. They cannot hear or see what is going on around them and just let it go on by.

Again, a good point. When I was younger (during the bobba filter era), I did venture into cybering, not going to lie, because I was intrigued, but I got fed up ahving to type out words. Even if there was a full staff of capable mods, they couldn't check EVERY chat log for sexual references, they have 'trigger' words already, which I just think they actually need to act on.

If they are all singaporean, or soon to be costa rican, does that mean at certain times there's no mods (say 4am costa rica time) which is peak GMT time?


Needing to prove that users are 18 is just even more effort, and with habbos past with databases being leaked would you want them to hold information on your ID (driving license scan, etc)?

I sure as hell wouldn't.

How would they catch the people who are faking their age?

They couldn't, that's the problem. I'm trying to think of another way they could do this...

Children jsut don't understand how illegal it is to fake your age...

[GommeInc]

I think that the 'everyone not a kid/teen is a paedo' stance is not necessarily a bad thing - it teaches children to be wary of anyone.

Hey i'm over 18! I'm not saying that it's right to accuse anyone, but I was talking to a 20 year old yesterday, I was wary of him and after a while he ended up asking for naked pictures. I know I'm technically an adult, but he could have contacted me when I was still a younger teenager.
Would it not be better just to teach children not to give complete strangers naked pictures of yourself or follow them in to dark alleyways? Some strangers have helped children in the past. A few times at my school a stranger reported into the office saying they think a child was being bullied after seeing them run off crying and asking them what's wrong. It's more wary of where conversations and actions may lead, rather than a fear of old men in general :P

[Niall!]

I think that the 'everyone not a kid/teen is a paedo' stance is not necessarily a bad thing - it teaches children to be wary of anyone.

Hey i'm over 18! I'm not saying that it's right to accuse anyone, but I was talking to a 20 year old yesterday, I was wary of him and after a while he ended up asking for naked pictures. I know I'm technically an adult, but he could have contacted me when I was still a younger teenager.

But that's exactly the kind of slippery slope we should be worried about. First of all, you can't have people living in fear. Second, eventually this would slip over in to real life, leaving some kids/teens with a huge paranoia at all times or an extreme fear of adults out on the street which, while useful, WILL destroy their lives. What you're promoting is the "trust nobody, only yourself" way of thinking and let me tell you from experience, that makes you miserable.

You have no right to call the 20 year old a potential pedophile. You are 18, a legal adult and any nude picture of yourself is considered legal in the eyes of the British government. What you are basically saying is that someone could potentially molest a child because they have sex with 18-19 year olds which is absolutely ridiculous, especially if the guy is only 20 years of age. Do you understand what I'm trying to say now?

[GommeInc]

I wonder if they will make it so users can't make free rooms anymore unless they buy furniture... It seems like an idea that could work, but it's a solution that would be too late considering how many of these rooms probably belong to people completely oblivious to what's going on.

[Wyked]

I can definitely see a situation here where the hotel remains muted until a very strict chat filter has been put in place, no option of turning it off, and a dramatic increase in active moderation, at least for the time being until all of the media attention dies down.

[MKR&*42]

I wonder if they will make it so users can't make free rooms anymore unless they buy furniture... It seems like an idea that could work, but it's a solution that would be too late considering how many of these rooms probably belong to people completely oblivious to what's going on.

Yeah it would be kinda unfair on newbies and also people who don't actually have furniture (cri). I don't bother with furniture nor care about it, I have some on 1 acc. but on Intersocial it's devoid of furniture :P. Not that I'd create a room for cybering of course lol. If anything, Sulake should simply remove beds from the hotel? I know they're good for adoption and stuff like hotels but half the time they're a complete pain and just attract the wrong sort of intention from users.

[GommeInc]

Yeah it would be kinda unfair on newbies and also people who don't actually have furniture (cri). I don't bother with furniture nor care about it, I have some on 1 acc. but on Intersocial it's devoid of furniture :P. Not that I'd create a room for cybering of course lol. If anything, Sulake should simply remove beds from the hotel? I know they're good for adoption and stuff like hotels but half the time they're a complete pain and just attract the wrong sort of intention from users.
Indeed, but then again why would you create empty rooms? :P

The only real way of nipping this in the butt is to boost awareness, filter discussions, have moderators keep a close eye on discussions (have the system pull up conversations where users are talking about skype, meeting up, or anything of a sexual nature) and completely overhaul any dodgy rooms and furniture. I'm sure things were better in the past, but then again Habbo has been in decline for years. The CEO seems hopeless and the moderators probably do not know what Habbo is :/

[lawrawrrr]

Would it not be better just to teach children not to give complete strangers naked pictures of yourself or follow them in to dark alleyways? Some strangers have helped children in the past. A few times at my school a stranger reported into the office saying they think a child was being bullied after seeing them run off crying and asking them what's wrong. It's more wary of where conversations and actions may lead, rather than a fear of old men in general :P

It would be - but children do tend to rebel against what teachers or parents tell them (althought i think taking clothes off is a really basic and kinda shows a lack of common sense. At my school, a guy got fired because he used to access girl's facebook accounts through the school computer at break times.

I do agree with being wary of evetualities - and I think that we should be taught to notice the signs, and to discourage it. It's not even a fear of old men just anyone older than themselves. Or younger, really.


But that's exactly the kind of slippery slope we should be worried about. First of all, you can't have people living in fear. Second, eventually this would slip over in to real life, leaving some kids/teens with a huge paranoia at all times or an extreme fear of adults out on the street which, while useful, WILL destroy their lives. What you're promoting is the "trust nobody, only yourself" way of thinking and let me tell you from experience, that makes you miserable.

You have no right to call the 20 year old a potential pedophile. You are 18, a legal adult and any nude picture of yourself is considered legal in the eyes of the British government. What you are basically saying is that someone could potentially molest a child because they have sex with 18-19 year olds which is absolutely ridiculous, especially if the guy is only 20 years of age. Do you understand what I'm trying to say now?

I know that's not a healthy stance at all, I'm not saying trust noone, like my conversation with Gomme, children should be wary of situations. Wary isn't the same as paranoia.

He didn't know I was 18 when he contacted me. I never told him actually. I didn't call him a paedophile at all - just saying it would be possible for him to contact any other person, regardles of age. He asked for pictures without checking.

[mrwoooooooo]

ip ban people who talk about it. simples.

[iBlueBox]

Is mass messaging now muted?

[Kieran]

Is mass messaging now muted?

Yes

*/longer

[Grig]

and where are the parents in this argument on esafety. They have a responsibility too.

[MKR&*42]

Indeed, but then again why would you create empty rooms? :P

The only real way of nipping this in the butt is to boost awareness, filter discussions, have moderators keep a close eye on discussions (have the system pull up conversations where users are talking about skype, meeting up, or anything of a sexual nature) and completely overhaul any dodgy rooms and furniture. I'm sure things were better in the past, but then again Habbo has been in decline for years. The CEO seems hopeless and the moderators probably do not know what Habbo is :/

So I can invite people into my room and kick them clearly ;) I kid x I suppose just to chat (in case someone stalks me). I'm not really fussed what room I'm in as long as I can chat to someone xD. You have a point though and I probably wouldn't bother creating one in the end.

I think you raise an interesting point in regards to discussions concerning sites. After this whole Channel 4 incident, Sulake will either do nothing and pray they survive (as always :rolleyes), actually improve moderation or go really over-protective. My biggest fear is that if they start becoming over-protective then people are going to be banned for asking for Skype/MSN. Don't get me wrong, if the intention is for cam sex then yes ban them - but I've been asked many times by close friends on there for MSN for non-sexual reasons :P

Considering the moderation is now outsourced, they probably don't know what Habbo is yes lol.

I'd be in great support of a higher quality of moderation but I'd be in fear of the moderators getting far too over protective xD. I've had many "normal sexual discussions" (not cybersex) with teenagers on Habbo because there's nothing wrong with it in my eyes - we're all teens/adults and we've experienced the effects of puberty so I see no harm in it. But then the issue of underage users kicks us in the teeth :P

[Niall!]

I know that's not a healthy stance at all, I'm not saying trust noone, like my conversation with Gomme, children should be wary of situations. Wary isn't the same as paranoia.

He didn't know I was 18 when he contacted me. I never told him actually. I didn't call him a paedophile at all - just saying it would be possible for him to contact any other person, regardles of age. He asked for pictures without checking.

I agree, children should be wary online and maybe your above post was due to our little debate but it walked the fine line between wariness and outright paranoia that every adult online is a potential pedophile.

I apologize if you took that bit as if I was pointing fingers; I was merely giving my view from the information you had given me. If he at first didn't check that you were indeed of age then he is indeed a dodgy individual.

[Xedia]

and where are the parents in this argument on esafety. They have a responsibility too.

Parents never get the blame for things like this, It's always the kids fault.

[lawrawrrr]

I agree, children should be wary online and maybe your above post was due to our little debate but it walked the fine line between wariness and outright paranoia that every adult online is a potential pedophile.

I apologize if you took that bit as if I was pointing fingers; I was merely giving my view from the information you had given me. If he at first didn't check that you were indeed of age then he is indeed a dodgy individual.

It was a bit, I understand that being suspicious of everyone isn't exactly good, I'm not really putting the thoughts in my head into words very well at the moment. I'm far too suspicious of people, and I do get paranoid even irl, but with just cause really, for reasons both online and irl, which I don't really want to go into, but you probably realise what I mean.

It's ok, I should have made that clear really. The other thing which raised questions was that everyone says I look really young in my profile pictures (and irl). Even when I was under 18 I was receiving similar requests... the internet makes it too easy for paedos these days. Especially with the amount of 'pedobear' jokes... making it seem funny to be a padeo... which it REALLY isn't.

[Niall!]

It was a bit, I understand that being suspicious of everyone isn't exactly good, I'm not really putting the thoughts in my head into words very well at the moment. I'm far too suspicious of people, and I do get paranoid even irl, but with just cause really, for reasons both online and irl, which I don't really want to go into, but you probably realise what I mean.

It's ok, I should have made that clear really. The other thing which raised questions was that everyone says I look really young in my profile pictures (and irl). Even when I was under 18 I was receiving similar requests... the internet makes it too easy for paedos these days. Especially with the amount of 'pedobear' jokes... making it seem funny to be a padeo... which it REALLY isn't.

Everybody is a bit paranoid online so it's ok. I'm just reaffirming the line needs to be set between normal adults using websites they grew up with and people with impure intentions.

Do remember that not everyone is in clue with the law. If for example you were 16-17 at the time you were receiving these requests and therefore above the legal age of consent then it doesn't surprise me. However a lot of people aren't aware of the fact that any nude photos must be of people aged 18 and above. Just remember that, as I said there is a very fine line.

[TonyBest]

Snowstorm's chat is also muted

[Geiranger]

We're in page 4 of the Daily Mail and Page 8 'i'

[lawrawrrr]

Everybody is a bit paranoid online so it's ok. I'm just reaffirming the line needs to be set between normal adults using websites they grew up with and people with impure intentions.

Do remember that not everyone is in clue with the law. If for example you were 16-17 at the time you were receiving these requests and therefore above the legal age of consent then it doesn't surprise me. However a lot of people aren't aware of the fact that any nude photos must be of people aged 18 and above. Just remember that, as I said there is a very fine line.

Yeah of course it does. Who's right is it to set that line though? I'm contradicting myself here (I always do) but if Person A says 'I'm 18' and then progesses to cyber with Person B who's actually over 18, is the Person B to blame? They didn't have impure intentions, just wanted to get their jollies.

Sex laws - especially pertaining to the internet should be better published IMO, even I wasn't sure what the legal age was for things to be honest.

[Mark]

Anyone fancy taking a photo of the newspaper articles and post them here? I'd be quite interested in having a look since i can't get a newspaper atm.

Also, is the hotel still muted?

[lawrawrrr]

Anyone fancy taking a photo of the newspaper articles and post them here? I'd be quite interested in having a look since i can't get a newspaper atm.

Also, is the hotel still muted?
Intersocial; had pictures earlier in another thread from the mail and independent!

yes it is :(

[iBlueBox]

New Article on bbc about the mute.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-18424400

[AgnesIO]

Heyyy, so apparently like others, I saw all this on the news (originally BBC to be precise).

Can we be honest, this sort of thing was always going to happen eventually. Habbo, and Sulake, have been making the game more provocative (am I right in saying you get bikinis and stuff now?) I mean, obviously I realise that under normal circumstances that does not matter. However, when you have people wearing as little 'pixel clothing' as possible in 'strip clubs' it is a fairly serious issue. It DOES invite paedophiles, but then having said that I honestly cannot see why Habbo is any worse than the likes of Facebook - in fact I would have said that Facebook is far worse on the basis you can see at least two photos of any person you feel like, possibly even more. I still don't understand what the idea was behind the removal of 'bobba' - not only was it a recognised part of the game, but it also provided some foam walls for the younger age groups on Habbo, meaning they didn't see explicit language - yeah, sure you could be mega cool and put a dot in the f word, but in general people didn't. What I REALLY cannot understand is why people are still logging on to it - I mean there is NO point in standing in a room holding a torch, are people really that addicted to find it fun?

Another point, is yes, Channel 4's report is incredibly bias. But that is ALWAYS the case with the media! They need to sell stories, of course it was bias. The fact that some users are saying how sickening that is is absolutely absurd. The only people anyone should be turning at is Sulake themselves. Channel 4 should NEVER have been able to find all these rooms, such as 'strip clubs' and 'gay, bi lez bars' - that is simply not something that should be part of an online world built for (primarily) young teenagers. Sulake have failed massively, and from what I have heard (but not experienced) the moderation has gone downhill dramatically since all the cost-cutting. The place where Sulake went wrong, was actively encouraging flirting - I mean, it doesn't take a genius to work out that it WILL cause uproar sooner or later.

My third paragraph is dedicated to parents. With all due respect, no ones parent should be shocked by this. In fact, a childs parent is - in my opinion - totally inadequate if they fail to notice what their child is doing online, for what are generally extended periods of time. Sulake know as well as anyone people under 13 use the website, but in fairness if someone goes on under that age IT IS NOT THEIR PROBLEM. They clearly state in the ToS that you need to be 13, and they can't really stop everyone under that age getting on. I mean, didn't/isn't facebook (used to be) 13+?

Another point I would like to make, is I am surprised channel four's report stopped where it did. What about the online gambling of what is POTENTIALLY real money? In fairness, I always liked this and made a profit in real cash in the end. But it is simply ludicrous that people under 18 were ever allowed to actively gamble, right under the eyes of the moderators. Gambling is illegal in the UK for U18's, and for a damn good reason. It takes one hell of a lot of responsibility, and can also be hugely addicting - especially for a child who has never experienced the thrill before.

Anyway, off down the gym so stopping there :)

[Storking]

I can't believe this is still going on.. the management are awful!

[MKR&*42]

Anyone fancy taking a photo of the newspaper articles and post them here? I'd be quite interested in having a look since i can't get a newspaper atm.

Also, is the hotel still muted?

Yes, everything is muted now lol. No invites, no PMs, no SnowStorm chat. I don't think I can even chat via helper chat? :S.

The articles are online as well xD I'm sure someone already posted the daily mail link ages ago, but I'll go find that and the other ones:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2158301/Habbo-Hotel-childrens-website-defences-paedophiles.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/news/9326608/Habbo-Hotel-childrens-site-full-of-pornographic-chat.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-18415763

OH LOL. I just noticed that the telegraph have also reported about the global mute:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/social-media/9328489/Habbo-Hotel-chats-silenced-over-sex-allegations.html

and so have the BBC (check iBlueBox's post ^)

BBC: "Social network Club Penguin puts safety at the top of its agenda by using filters that limit what can be discussed.While Moshi Monsters, another child-friendly social network, bans private messaging."

That's just silly tbqh. You can't compare Habbo to Club Penguin or Moshi Monsters. Both of the games are dreadful because chat is so limited (not to mention you can get banned on Club Penguin for nearly everything I believe? xD)

[Niall!]

Yeah of course it does. Who's right is it to set that line though? I'm contradicting myself here (I always do) but if Person A says 'I'm 18' and then progesses to cyber with Person B who's actually over 18, is the Person B to blame? They didn't have impure intentions, just wanted to get their jollies.

Sex laws - especially pertaining to the internet should be better published IMO, even I wasn't sure what the legal age was for things to be honest.

Well what you raise now is not only the online question but an issue that is heavily debated in real life as well. I'll admit I'm not as clued in this area as I should be but I believe it's up to the adult in most cases to affirm the person they're planning to.. have relations with and unless they can prove that the underage person lied to them it's them that goes down for life as a scumbag. It's a dodgy law considering it's quite often people aren't going to say "Can I see your ID before you hop in my bed please?" but that's what it comes to. That's why online dating even for someone who is looking for an adult relationship with a fellow adult is perilous.

[Paige.]

thanks for posting this, was a good read and i like the last line haha

[Smurfed-]

New Article on bbc about the mute.

Many felt the move to mute conversations was unnecessary.

One tweeted: "Habbo Hotel has always been full of paedophiles. Avoiding them was part of the game."

I saw this tweet last night, they probably haven't done Sulake any favors.

[lawrawrrr]

Well what you raise now is not only the online question but an issue that is heavily debated in real life as well. I'll admit I'm not as clued in this area as I should be but I believe it's up to the adult in most cases to affirm the person they're planning to.. have relations with and unless they can prove that the underage person lied to them it's them that goes down for life as a scumbag. It's a dodgy law considering it's quite often people aren't going to say "Can I see your ID before you hop in my bed please?" but that's what it comes to. That's why online dating even for someone who is looking for an adult relationship with a fellow adult is perilous.

Yeah. I actually know someone at uni who was asked to provide ID before she had sex with a guy, as he had been accused of paedophilia before as he had been with a 16-y-o who lied to him. The court didn't believe him though, i think he was given community service though and told to be more careful. It's so tricky when you get to the age of 18 ish and are looking for a relationship - even more so online as you can conceal so much more. But that's the individual's fault...

[Calvin]

What is the point in this global mute exactly? They're punishing everyone who uses Habbo to chat and interact with friends, just because of a bunch of horny little boys who wanted cyber sex. Not everyone is into that **** so only those few users should be punished, I mean a good option after the whole Channel 4 thing would be to temporarily remove the Dating Rooms category from the navigator and getting moderators to keep an eye out in the other categories, not muting the whole hotel!

If I was a new user and only went on to chat with friends to find that the whole chat was muted and had been for several hours then I would probably find something else to do to keep me occupied, which couldd mean me forgetting to go back on there. This could possibly be the case with most new users at the moment so it isn't the best of moves.

And about the Channel4 thing, moderation on Habbo has sucked for quite a while but none of the staff have bothered doing anything to fix it, instead they care more about making **** loads of money by releasing new and useless furniture all the time so this is their own fault. They deserve everything they get.

[Niall!]

Yeah. I actually know someone at uni who was asked to provide ID before she had sex with a guy, as he had been accused of paedophilia before as he had been with a 16-y-o who lied to him. The court didn't believe him though, i think he was given community service though and told to be more careful. It's so tricky when you get to the age of 18 ish and are looking for a relationship - even more so online as you can conceal so much more. But that's the individual's fault...

Huh? 16 is the legal age of consent, why the hell did he get community service for that? Why did it even go to court!?! And which individual are you talking about, the guy who was lied to or the guy who tried to get photographs from yourself?

[lawrawrrr]

What is the point in this global mute exactly? They're punishing everyone who uses Habbo to chat and interact with friends, just because of a bunch of horny little boys who wanted cyber sex. Not everyone is into that **** so only those few users should be punished, I mean a good option after the whole Channel 4 thing would be to temporarily remove the Dating Rooms category from the navigator and getting moderators to keep an eye out in the other categories, not muting the whole hotel!

If I was a new user and only went on to chat with friends to find that the whole chat was muted and had been for several hours then I would probably find something else to do to keep me occupied, which couldd mean me forgetting to go back on there. This could possibly be the case with most new users at the moment so it isn't the best of moves.

And about the Channel4 thing, moderation on Habbo has sucked for quite a while but none of the staff have bothered doing anything to fix it, instead they care more about making **** loads of money by releasing new and useless furniture all the time so this is their own fault. They deserve everything they get.

They have removed all dating rooms, many of the owners of them decided to pickall and delete groups after the report was published anyway. The mute.... well it does stop cybering.... but not in a very effective manner really. I've seen almost noone online all day, but a few days of mute won't detract that many new users from joining, nothing compared to a 13-year, almost-quarter-of-a-billion strong community.

Hopefully now the moderation will get better with this wakeup call.

[iBlueBox]

Also habbo will be on again at Channel 4 news.

[lawrawrrr]

Huh? 16 is the legal age of consent, why the hell did he get community service for that? Why did it even go to court!?! And which individual are you talking about, the guy who was lied to or the guy who tried to get photographs from yourself?

oh she must have been under 16 then, the girl told me he was punished. This is a different person to the guy I spoke about earlier.

[Niall!]

oh she must have been under 16 then, the girl told me he was punished. This is a different person to the guy I spoke about earlier.

That just proves my point. Was he put on the sex offenders list? I'm honestly surprised he didn't get years in prison because even with that excuse it's still illegal. But now we see how innocent people can be hurt by the laws made to protect them.

[xxMATTGxx]

This was re-tweeted by Becs (Old Sulake Staff) and the female who got interviewed last night:

http://www.campbellwright.co.uk/safety/hotel-of-horrors-more-like-auberge-of-apathy/

There is also this:

http://ashinyworld.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/outrageous-morals.html

[peteyt]

imo teenagers shouldn't be introduced to swearing. It's terrible how dependent we are (as a society) on it. It's just not necessary. I really need to stop online, I don't swear irl (very rarely). If people had to type out sexual words with a dot in I think they'd get bored.

I think this may be a bad idea. I agree swearing is a bad idea but it happens. My problem is by hiding it from teens does it actually help them? You should educate people about it and the problems of it, but don't just hide it from them completely they'll find out.


I think that the 'everyone not a kid/teen is a paedo' stance is not necessarily a bad thing - it teaches children to be wary of anyone.

Hey i'm over 18! I'm not saying that it's right to accuse anyone, but I was talking to a 20 year old yesterday, I was wary of him and after a while he ended up asking for naked pictures. I know I'm technically an adult, but he could have contacted me when I was still a younger teenager.

This is a bad stance. People need to be shown the dangers of online chat, and know that you don't know who's who but actually claiming your a pedo if your over a certain age is quite dangerous.

As I've said in a number of posts - if parents are going to let their children online they should talk to them about the risks. Maybe there needs to be more information available and some actual teaching for parents, so they can identify problems that their children might get into

[Nli.]

Not sure if someone has posted this - but here's the link to the news report on Channel 4. Not sure if it's viewable outside the UK.

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/channel-4-news/4od#3362432

[Xedia]

They are digging themselves a big hole. When everyone is un muted, all hell will break loose. That is, if anyone is still playing by then.

[AlexHenry]

Do you think Habbo will close down and how long will it be until everyone is un-muted?

[Grig]

Paraic O'Brien ‏@paraicobrien
#habbohotel pt2 #c4news tonight. #Habbo user & want us to reflect your views? All ears. (obv minus swearing & racist rants, ta)

LOL hope it's as good as part 1.

[lawrawrrr]

That just proves my point. Was he put on the sex offenders list? I'm honestly surprised he didn't get years in prison because even with that excuse it's still illegal. But now we see how innocent people can be hurt by the laws made to protect them.

I have no idea, I don't know the guy. Is it fair he should be on it though, even thought the girl lied about her age?



I think this may be a bad idea. I agree swearing is a bad idea but it happens. My problem is by hiding it from teens does it actually help them? You should educate people about it and the problems of it, but don't just hide it from them completely they'll find out.

They're going to find out, but if a site is aimed at 13+ i don't think they should be allowing such a blatant display.




This is a bad stance. People need to be shown the dangers of online chat, and know that you don't know who's who but actually claiming your a pedo if your over a certain age is quite dangerous.

As I've said in a number of posts - if parents are going to let their children online they should talk to them about the risks. Maybe there needs to be more information available and some actual teaching for parents, so they can identify problems that their children might get into

I agree with you? My stance is that people should be wary... Parents should. Schools should too, as I think children usually rebel against protective parents (I certainly did) but an objective educator have more of an impact.

[MKR&*42]

LOL hope it's as good as part 1.

What, is there more tonight or is this some joke I don't get? :(.

[Grig]

What, is there more tonight or is this some joke I don't get? :(.

Yeh part 2 of this is on tonight's news according to the reporter :P.

So maybe more blows to Habbz!

https://twitter.com/#!/paraicobrien

You can give comments by tweeting him.

[MKR&*42]

Yeh part 2 of this is on tonight's news according to the reporter :P.

So maybe more blows to Habbz!

Omfg, loooool Sulake are going to be so screwed after tonight. Looks like a longer mute for us guys x

I might just regularly watch Channel 4 news after all this lmfao.

[Xedia]

Maybe there is, Or it could just be a repeat of the stake holder interview.

Not sure if this one has been posted yet.
http://www.channel4.com/news/high-street-shops-stop-selling-habbo-hotel-gift-cards

[Bob1]

This was re-tweeted by Becs (Old Sulake Staff) and the female who got interviewed last night:

http://www.campbellwright.co.uk/safety/hotel-of-horrors-more-like-auberge-of-apathy/

There is also this:

http://ashinyworld.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/outrageous-morals.html

Good reads, I'm going to throw my own blog post into the hat again now the threads have been merged

http://habbobob.tumblr.com/

Also, can't wait for the news again tonight, wonder what they're digging up now.

[Niall!]

I have no idea, I don't know the guy. Is it fair he should be on it though, even thought the girl lied about her age?

I never said that he should be, I was merely asking. Technically in the eyes of the law yes, he should but everybody has opinions. I honestly don't know where to stand on the issue; if there's no proof he could potentially be lying to protect himself but he's telling the truth then it is her that should be punished.

[MKR&*42]

Maybe there is, Or it could just be a repeat of the stake holder interview.

Not sure if this one has been posted yet.
http://www.channel4.com/news/high-street-shops-stop-selling-habbo-hotel-gift-cards

DYING IRL AT THEM TAKING A PIC OF PROTESTERS.

"Following the report, Channel 4 News was bombarded with angry messages on Twitter and Facebook after the site was silenced." - Hardly surprising xD.

[AlexHenry]

This mute is like McDonalds keeping their stores open but not selling any burgers... lmfao ;)

[lawrawrrr]

I never said that he should be, I was merely asking. Technically in the eyes of the law yes, he should but everybody has opinions. I honestly don't know where to stand on the issue; if there's no proof he could potentially be lying to protect himself but he's telling the truth then it is her that should be punished.

That's the problem with so many laws these days though - proof. *sigh* But that's a topic for another thread another day LOL


DYING IRL AT THEM TAKING A PIC OF PROTESTERS.

"Following the report, Channel 4 News was bombarded with angry messages on Twitter and Facebook after the site was silenced." - Hardly surprising xD.

i saw so many kids writing @c4news DIE DIE DIE and other hateful messages, grow up! I've posted a few more sensible tweets about the gross exaggeration and misrepresentation but nothing major.

[Mark]

Forgot who posted the new post on the Habbo blog so I can't quote them.
Anyway, I read this:

Our internal investigation is currently on-going, but we will be sure to inform all users of further developments in the coming days and weeks.
Does this mean the mute will last for a few more days? Or will there be more strange changes/features being disabled?

[FiftyCal]

I am going to laugh if someone files a lawsuit and the hotel shuts down

[MKR&*42]

I imagine if the channel 4 news reports it again tonight, the mute will remain for another day or so lol. Silencing us is the only solution it seems (especially if people watching Channel 4 decide to flood the hotel again) so I'd imagine we'll be in place for a while.

Loled at how someone had the room desc. "they can take our voices, but they'll never take our freedom" ...

[lawrawrrr]

Forgot who posted the new post on the Habbo blog so I can't quote them.
Anyway, I read this:

Does this mean the mute will last for a few more days? Or will there be more strange changes/features being disabled?

I would assume the mute'll go on for a little bit more... then possibly changes to the system, e.g. more blocking on words and phrases

[Storking]

Seriously Paul needs to be fired for justifying this mute, this is a joke. You can't just silence people when you don't like what they're saying! Bad management!

[Aaron]

This is on the client page now, not sure if it's relevant though:

http://prntscr.com/aj8ah

[Succubus]

Keep it open, obviously.

But they haven't taken it too far, IMO. Concerns are concerns.

[MKR&*42]

This is on the client page now, not sure if it's relevant though:

http://prntscr.com/aj8ah

Thanks for posting this aha. I still find it ludicrous though that we're having to go Twitter and hotel view to find out stuff like this - a simple news article would do the trick and would be easily spotted by more people.

Are you lot actually on the game still lmfao? It's far too boring muted :(

[FlyingJesus]

The only problem with the OLD MEN WANT TO RAPE YOU stance is that eventually this will lead to the belief that everyone not a kid/teen online is a pedophile and will cause an even larger gap in any mixed age community, even things such as this forum

Actually while that is a pretty big problem (and one that directly affects me as an older member) a far bigger problem associated with this ridiculous belief that all males of a certain age are paedophilic rapists is that women are just as much a danger - over 60% of daycare molestation reports have female perpetrators, and 95% of youths in stateside juvenile facilities who report being sexually assaulted by a staff member report a female member of staff. Another report on sexual abuse survivors (not just in special facilities) states 23% of victims had a female-only perpetrator and 22% had both male and female perpetrators - females being involved in 45% of all cases. When you look at the figures, the idea that we ought to be wary of men because they're the dangerous ones just seems stupid.


I think that the 'everyone not a kid/teen is a paedo' stance is not necessarily a bad thing - it teaches children to be wary of anyone.

Gross generalisations are never good


Do remember that not everyone is in clue with the law. If for example you were 16-17 at the time you were receiving these requests and therefore above the legal age of consent then it doesn't surprise me. However a lot of people aren't aware of the fact that any nude photos must be of people aged 18 and above. Just remember that, as I said there is a very fine line.

This is one of the biggest issues really, people are simply uneducated. I think just about everyone here agrees that actually teaching kids what's up is a better idea than forcing them to not speak to anyone ever, the only person I can think of who might disagree is Dan because he thinks that if you tell kids what a penis is they're going to become Satanists by the time they're 10

[Aaron]

Yeah, the badges that were given got took back as soon as it ended. Same with me, the lack of communication put me off too.




We got a badge but when it ended it was removed, it ended and 40 people were meant to be in. I didn't expect a reward either, when I got the gift I thought it'd be a duck.

The lack of communication for council put me off, put up with it then though me sitting in there hours and no one fitting ban times, pft.

I think we all got a trophy, Bailey did and he was less active in proper room than some I only met about ten. Made a good friend though lol.

[iBlueBox]

DID CHANNEL 4 NEWS JUST SAY SOMETHING ABOUT HABBO BEING SHUT DOWN?

[Storking]

"Working tirelessly" is a ridiculous cover up. They're just muting Habbo so that when parents go online, they don't see what really happens and how much cyber sex there usually is! :rolleyes:

[TonyBest]

Theres going to be another news segment for Habbo on Channel 4 tonight at 7pm for those interested.

[Aaron]

Thanks for posting this aha. I still find it ludicrous though that we're having to go Twitter and hotel view to find out stuff like this - a simple news article would do the trick and would be easily spotted by more people.

Are you lot actually on the game still lmfao? It's far too boring muted :(

No problem! :P Yeah agreed, if something was posted keeping us up to date with what's happening in relations to the mute ect.

Tonight's news report on C4 at 7pm will be interesting to see what they say tonight..

[lawrawrrr]

Gross generalisations are never good

I know that... people seem to be taking what I said completely out of context. All I meant was that everyone - especially young girls should eb wary of any situation, and learn to spot and stop the signs!!

[Niall!]

Actually while that is a pretty big problem (and one that directly affects me as an older member) a far bigger problem associated with this ridiculous belief that all males of a certain age are paedophilic rapists is that women are just as much a danger - over 60% of daycare molestation reports have female perpetrators, and 95% of youths in stateside juvenile facilities who report being sexually assaulted by a staff member report a female member of staff. Another report on sexual abuse survivors (not just in special facilities) states 23% of victims had a female-only perpetrator and 22% had both male and female perpetrators - females being involved in 45% of all cases. When you look at the figures, the idea that we ought to be wary of men because they're the dangerous ones just seems stupid.



Gross generalisations are never good



This is one of the biggest issues really, people are simply uneducated. I think just about everyone here agrees that actually teaching kids what's up is a better idea than forcing them to not speak to anyone ever, the only person I can think of who might disagree is Dan because he thinks that if you tell kids what a penis is they're going to become Satanists by the time they're 10

I admit I did a double take when I realized you were posting so seriously. I agree on everything though.

I wonder what their hotels investigation is about, undermodding or are they just looking for someone to make an example of?

[efq]

Channel 4 said Habbo will be shut down if they don't stop pedos? That's an impossible task.

Bad press for habbo. They are dooooomed

[MKR&*42]

Can't wait 55 mins, wish time machines existed :(.

I highly doubt it'd be shut down^ xD. Although I wouldn't be that shocked.

[Lewis]

A channel 4 advertisement before the simpsons came on said 'Habbo Hotel may be shut down if drastic action is not taken' :o

Threads merged by Jordan (Forum Super Moderator): As these are the same topic

[Aaron]

Channel 4 said Habbo will be shut down if they don't stop pedos? That's an impossible task.

Bad press for habbo. They are dooooomed


DID CHANNEL 4 NEWS JUST SAY SOMETHING ABOUT HABBO BEING SHUT DOWN?

Where was this said.. the site, news station or?

[FlyingJesus]

especially young girls

1 in 6 adult men report being sexually abused as a child, you may want to rethink the addition of that particular clause in your post, as well as in your general thinking on such matters

[Storking]

ludus:



"As a former Sulake employee, great talent spent years building the Habbo brand. Absolute morons destroying it in days! So appalled."

"the response inc. muting all chat is just sheer lunacy. Absolute insane. I can't think of a person inside who would sanction that."

"There should be no mute. Whoever sanctioned that needs to put down the bottle of vodka. It's outrageous, not the Sulake way."

[Astronomist]

A channel 4 advertisement before the simpsons came on said 'Habbo Hotel may be shut down if drastic action is not taken' :o

I doubt they could close it down... there would be several unhappy people who have paid for stuff. Anyway, this only affects the UK so the most action they could take is blocking it from UK servers unless other countries wanted it blocked too.

[GommeInc]

It's amusing seeing so many distraught people attacking C4 News. They're coming out with complete rubbish and show a clear lack of understanding. They keep using Facebook as an example of a site that has paedophilia problems, yet completely forget that the two work completely differently to each other and that moderation on Habbo needs to be more stricter and powerful than that of Facebook, because Facebook already has strong safeguards in place and isn't directed at pre-teens and teens who chat in real time to each other with no restrictions.

Someone should just tell them they've wasted money on virtual furniture and laugh at them, that should shut them up. In a few years time they'll be looking back and laughing at the money and time they have wasted - I know I do :P

[Mark]

'Don't believe eveything you read in the papers' should be kept in mind. I can't see them closing down, Sulake make far too much money out of Habbo and they wouldnt mute the hotel to look through the chatlogs for nothing.

[Storking]

I think the reports are damaging but not something that would force Habbo to close, what I find more damaging is the crap management from Paul by allowing this global mute! Sulake has changed big time, and for the worse.


I doubt they could close it down... there would be several unhappy people who have paid for stuff. Anyway, this only affects the UK so the most action they could take is blocking it from UK servers unless other countries wanted it blocked too.

The T&Cs state they're allowed to take the items and not give refunds.

[MKR&*42]

It won't close, Habbo Hotel is such a unique community (because it's a virtual game with a social networking twist to it) and hundreds/thousands of people would complain. Sure, there's a massive problem with people going onto MSN/Sype and cybering (do you have to be a certain age to go on these sites?) and other sites such as TinyChat should require users to create accounts and confirm they are of a certain age before signing up (yes ik it's easy to fake your age).

Something interesting happened on a site I tried to sign up to once. I accidently inputed the wrong year, so it thought I was born in 1997 and then it said "I needed to be 16+ to enter". So I tried to redo the year but I wouldn't let me 'cause it knew I had already input my "correct age" (it thought). Why don't Sulake adopt this? Sure there'd be issues with people accidently inputting the wrong year but it would mean people who are like 9 can't fake their age by refreshing the page :S.

[Jssy]

Hmm I dunno. I didn't think everything would go as far as this but it has

[Storking]

It's amusing seeing so many distraught people attacking C4 News. They're coming out with complete rubbish and show a clear lack of understanding. They keep using Facebook as an example of a site that has paedophilia problems, yet completely forget that the two work completely differently to each other and that moderation on Habbo needs to be more stricter and powerful than that of Facebook, because Facebook already has strong safeguards in place and isn't directed at pre-teens and teens who chat in real time to each other with no restrictions.

Someone should just tell them they've wasted money on virtual furniture and laugh at them, that should shut them up. In a few years time they'll be looking back and laughing at the money and time they have wasted - I know I do :P

The kids insulting channel 4 on their Facebook page are an embarrassment.

Their reasoning also includes "what do you expect if you go into a room called strip club", what idiocy! The fact is these rooms shouldn't exist in the first place, let alone be the top rooms in the navigator. :rolleyes:

[lTraditional]

My mum saw this and because she knows I play Habbo, I thought she would be like "YOU CANNOT GO ON IT AGAIN!" but I must agree with her when she actually said "it happens everywhere anyway, on Facebook, on MSN, on Club Penguin" and Channel 4 just decided to pick on Habbo Hotel.

[Aaron]

Sulake wouldn't close the site, they make far to much profit from having Habbo. Although if they don't take action, I'd assume the Children Protection people would get involved ect. I'm sure Habbo will dig themselves out of this rough patch, but I wonder how.

[orientalframe?]

i don't think they will close down with the amount of money sulake make out of it :P

[MKR&*42]

ludus:



"As a former Sulake employee, great talent spent years building the Habbo brand. Absolute morons destroying it in days! So appalled."

"the response inc. muting all chat is just sheer lunacy. Absolute insane. I can't think of a person inside who would sanction that."

"There should be no mute. Whoever sanctioned that needs to put down the bottle of vodka. It's outrageous, not the Sulake way."

Off topic, but wasn't ludus fired from Sulake? Nevertheless, it's nice to see he's actually made a comment about this and actually cares lol.
GommeInc; Completely agree about spending money on virtual furniture. I haven't done it for quite a while now because it just doesn't give me any interest nor does it greatly benefit me in reality. I'd rather go shove money in a bank account than buy Credits now tbh. I haven't actually look at C4s Twitter feed or whatever so I don't know how bad the attacks are? I'll admit it is very biased but Sulake still are to blame for a large portion of it.

[DPS]

If a european court forced it to close.. they would have to just saying lol....

also if they did, not being funny but id just make a retro for everyone i know lol.

[Succubus]

They won't shut down, as others have stated they make way to much money.

People would complain about how much they've spent, been a loyal member over the years etc, it would be to much hassle.

[Storking]

:O


"Balderton had been an investor in Sulake for the past eight years and together with other backers had invested some $35 million in the site"


http://techcrunch.com/2012/06/12/trouble-at-habbo-hotel-balderton-dumps-13-stake-in-owner-sulake-over-dodgy-child-content/

[scottish]

Paraic O'Brien ‏@paraicobrien
#habbohotel main investor 3i have removed their stake in the company.


another one bites the dust r.i.p habbo lol

[Storking]

They won't shut down, as others have stated they make way to much money.

People would complain about how much they've spent, been a loyal member over the years etc, it would be to much hassle.


12.2 We may terminate these Terms and Conditions or suspend your account at any time with or without notice to you if:
(a.) you breach these Terms and Conditions or Habboway (https://help.habbo.com/entries/274612-the-habbo-way)
(b) you have not accessed your account for 6 months; or
(c) if the Website is going to be shut down or merged with other services. You are not entitled to a refund of fees in these circumstances.


YOU WOULD HAVE NO CASE AGAINST SULAKE.

[Grig]

JUST IN

Paraic O'Brien ‏@paraicobrien
#habbohotel main investor 3i have removed their stake in the company.

[Succubus]

12.2 We may terminate these Terms and Conditions or suspend your account at any time with or without notice to you if:
(a.) you breach these Terms and Conditions or Habboway (https://help.habbo.com/entries/274612-the-habbo-way)
(b) you have not accessed your account for 6 months; or
(c) if the Website is going to be shut down or merged with other services. You are not entitled to a refund of fees in these circumstances.


YOU WOULD HAVE NO CASE AGAINST SULAKE.


But do you really think that would stop people from complaining, they may not have a case against sulake but they will still complain. I never said any one was entitled to anything.

[iBlueBox]

Kind of shows you the power the media have these days.

[xxMATTGxx]

JUST IN

Paraic O'Brien ‏@paraicobrien
#habbohotel main investor 3i have removed their stake in the company.

I just read an article saying they was going to remain committed, looks like they changed their mind.

[Storking]

But do you really think that would stop people from complaining, they may not have a case against sulake but they will still complain. I never said any one was entitled to anything.

Complain where? to who? If the site and offices close then you will be left with a mere memory of your virtual furniture. :D

[Succubus]

Complain where? to who? If the site and offices close then you will be left with a mere memory of your virtual furniture. :D

If sulake has other stuff I'm sure people would complain through there, the offices may be closed but the company hasn't. People will figure out ways. I never said I will complain I was stating my opinion.

[Red]

Who is ludus referring to when he says having destroyed it in days?

I'm just getting pissed now though. Habbo has its faults which need addressed, (especially with the cut costing with moderation and their encouragement of flirting), but they still didn't deserve that. The report was sooo bias. The reporter went and removed the filter and chose to enter those rooms. Yes they shouldn't even exist but c4 didn't visit any other rooms or talk about the employed safety mechanisms such as muting/reporting. Not to mention all habbo's safety campaigns on educating users and their involvement with organisations such as Frank and Childline, without which many people would not have found support.

[Jssy]

Wow loads have investors have pulled out now, bad news for habbo

[Grig]

I just read an article saying they was going to remain committed, looks like they changed their mind.

yeh and this is a much more major blow for them as it's the main investor. Sulake stocks must be plummeting hard now.

[lawrawrrr]

1 in 6 adult men report being sexually abused as a child, you may want to rethink the addition of that particular clause in your post, as well as in your general thinking on such matters

I never said exclusively girls. I am well aware that boys suffer the same terrible things - but there are more girls. I'm not ignorant.

[AgnesIO]

I never said exclusively girls. I am well aware that boys suffer the same terrible things - but there are more girls. I'm not ignorant.

Would you also claim more girls get attacked on streets?

[lawrawrrr]

Would you also claim more girls get attacked on streets?

Attacked sexually? Yes.

[GommeInc]

The kids insulting channel 4 on their Facebook page are an embarrassment.

Their reasoning also includes "what do you expect if you go into a room called strip club", what idiocy! The fact is these rooms shouldn't exist in the first place, let alone be the top rooms in the navigator. :rolleyes:
Indeed, they're completely deluded with dangerously devoted loyalty. Some of them are saying "you should go pretend you're an 11 year old elsewhere" and then going on to blame the parents. The words "duty of care" do not exist to these people! And they're forgetting that 11 year olds do join Habbo because there's no way they can determine the age of their users. It's so stupid it's laughable!

They're also saying it happens to other sites like Facebook - yet the two sites are completely different. Facebook doesn't have a "chat to anyone in real-time" system, and it is easy to moderate. Habbo cannot moderate itself with ease because they do not keep detailed logs which they can refer to either by a human or through a system which can pick up irregular behaviour. One security firm in one of the C4 articles has wondered why Habbo isn't in the 21st Century with these security tools. Plus Habbo has a record now of bad safety and security for under aged users. Two paedophiles in the space of 6 months is incredibly bad :P

EU: Improve moderation or we will shut you down
http://www.channel4.com/news/eu-improve-moderation-or-we-will-shut-you-down/?4455

It's kicking off now :P The EU has got involved.

[Mathew]

What 18+?? I find it hard to believe there are that many people >18 playing on habbo. seems weird. from what ive read it all sounds a bit creepy now.
Bobba Bar... it's a separate game for mobiles that is aimed at 18+. :D


We got a badge but when it ended it was removed, it ended and 40 people were meant to be in. I didn't expect a reward either, when I got the gift I thought it'd be a duck.

The lack of communication for council put me off, put up with it then though me sitting in there hours and no one fitting ban times, pft.

I think we all got a trophy, Bailey did and he was less active in proper room than some I only met about ten. Made a good friend though lol.
Ooooo, interesting stuff. Thanks! :D

[AgnesIO]

Attacked sexually? Yes.

I said attacked. I have no idea what the figures on sexual attacks on the streets are - but you would almost undoubtedly be correct on that.

However, a young boy can be just as likely online to be taken advantage of. At the end of the day, it all depends on ones education and background - as if you are educated at a young age, you probably won't make the silly mistakes those who are used do.

[Lewis]

'Don't believe eveything you read in the papers' should be kept in mind. I can't see them closing down, Sulake make far too much money out of Habbo and they wouldnt mute the hotel to look through the chatlogs for nothing.

It isn't always sulakes choice.

[Demi]

http://i50.tinypic.com/5y506w.png

[lawrawrrr]

I said attacked. I have no idea what the figures on sexual attacks on the streets are - but you would almost undoubtedly be correct on that.

However, a young boy can be just as likely online to be taken advantage of. At the end of the day, it all depends on ones education and background - as if you are educated at a young age, you probably won't make the silly mistakes those who are used do.

I have no idea about just attacks, without researching I would assume that girls suffer more serious attacks from guys but guys are more likely to be attacked by other men than women. More likely - not definitely.

I'm well aware that boys are taken advantage of this way. There are more (reported) cases of girls though, which is why I wrote my original statement. People think that boys are exempt, but they're really not.

[Lewis]

Advert: Basically, they said the head of these type of websites for children said if they do not sort it out soon, all of habbo will shut down. I don't know if it means .com only, or what...

[Niall!]

Now that the government is involved I wonder how long it'll be until they start making examples of people.

[andoo89]

Every media loves a "moral crusade". nothing to do with truth but getting more eyes to watch their product. I think habbo is in panic mode because of this C4 report. It has to be seen doing something about it. What I fear most is that habbo - will do what faceparty did a few years back. Deleting a lot members under the pretence of "child protection".

[xxMATTGxx]

Advert: Basically, they said the head of these type of websites for children said if they do not sort it out soon, all of habbo will shut down. I don't know if it means .com only, or what...

A lot of the Europe hotels would be affected if it's done by the EU. Although I'm not sure who said what.

[Xedia]

This is really annoying me now.

Yes, Habbo has **** moderation, and the 225 moderator comment is B.S. But you can't blame a game for everything, what happened to parents moderating their child and teaching them what's right and wrong? Parents rely on companies and technology to do their job for them too much. If a 13 year old girl doesn't know that it's wrong to strip off on cam to a complete stranger, how is that Sulake's fault?

[Lewis]

A lot of the Europe hotels would be affected if it's done by the EU. Although I'm not sure who said what.

I had my headphones on when it showed, it was my brother that told me what they said, so I may not be exactly right but it was something along those lines.

[Aaron]

Off topic, but wasn't ludus fired from Sulake? Nevertheless, it's nice to see he's actually made a comment about this and actually cares lol.
@GommeInc (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=2339); Completely agree about spending money on virtual furniture. I haven't done it for quite a while now because it just doesn't give me any interest nor does it greatly benefit me in reality. I'd rather go shove money in a bank account than buy Credits now tbh. I haven't actually look at C4s Twitter feed or whatever so I don't know how bad the attacks are? I'll admit it is very biased but Sulake still are to blame for a large portion of it.

From what I remember, I think he/Sulake weren't renewing his contact as he wanted to focus on his studies! :P

[MKR&*42]

Who is ludus referring to when he says having destroyed it in days?

I'm just getting pissed now though. Habbo has its faults which need addressed, (especially with the cut costing with moderation and their encouragement of flirting), but they still didn't deserve that. The report was sooo bias. The reporter went and removed the filter and chose to enter those rooms. Yes they shouldn't even exist but c4 didn't visit any other rooms or talk about the employed safety mechanisms such as muting/reporting. Not to mention all habbo's safety campaigns on educating users and their involvement with organisations such as Frank and Childline, without which many people would not have found support.

This is a fabulous point - I mean they deliberately went looking for a dating room and they accepted a request from someone called "Sexiiboy"... what on Earth do they expect?

* They chose to sign up underage (if they were pretending they're 11)
* They chose to visit a dating room
* They chose to not even speak to the person before accepting a f/r
* They chose to not report the person for sexual activity
* They chose to remove the filter
* They chose not to delete that person

:S :S. Of course, Moderation is still a drastic issue in all of this but all of that ^ jus' shows how bias the report genuinely was. Also, the only way I actually learnt about FRANK was through Habbo loool. Kinda helped me when we had a PSHE (or "Life Skills") lesson on drugs tbh.

--
@Aaron (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=71156); Hmm ok xD. I'm just sure I read somewhere online that he was fired alongside the reason - because it all did seem rather abrupt, with Bucho6 he did radio shows and stuck around for a week or so before he officially vanished, Ludus just vanished overnight.

---

Oh, and also - at least the EU says "companies" in general. Nevertheless, the comments at the bottom of the article Gomme posted earlier have clearly been selected carefully lol.

[sophiethenerd]

This makes me very sad.
I saw this on the news and had to come and see what was happening.

There are problems like this on every site, Sulake needed a reprimanding about moderation, but they did not need this.
Habbo and this site were a part of my childhood. It seems wrong that it should all end like this.

If there had been other news this week channel 4 would have not have made such a big deal. Its all very sad.

I must admit going onto habbox helpdesk and seeing the room so quiet was heartbreaking (I sound so sad!)

[Kyle]

paul lafontaine can sod off back to disney playdom

[sex]

Me and tara are buying Habbo shares and forcing them to ban the people we don't like. Who wants to join us!
ON TOPIC: wonder what will be on the news report part 2?
wixard;

HABBIC IS FIRST TO BE BANNED

[Lewis]

Just reminding everyone now - Habbo shutting down is no longer in sulakes hand, but up to the government basically lol...

[DPS]

I love how people say Habbo wont close.. if a court rules that it has to close, then it has to close.

GG

[Xedia]

News is on after the adverts. :] Wonder what they have conjured up now..

[Niall!]

Indeed. If I'm not wrong all the servers a based in finland? If so then yeah, the EU is now in control and I expect them to be taking names of Habbos from either Sulake or the "investigation".

[Lewis]

I love how people say Habbo wont close.. if a court rules that it has to close, then it has to close.

GG

yep that's what i've been saying lol - It's no longer up to sulake, it can close anytime now :/

[MKR&*42]

Exciting times lol.
--

Still pmsl at them calling it "Habboland".

[xxMATTGxx]

Indeed. If I'm not wrong all the servers a based in finland? If so then yeah, the EU is now in control and I expect them to be taking names of Habbos from either Sulake or the "investigation".

They will most likely have servers in many locations.

[DPS]

Company that owned 16% of shares.. pulls out ;/

GG HABBO LMAO

[Mathew]

Habbo on Channel 4 News!!

http://i.imgur.com/ufZIh.png

I WANT THIS FURNI!!

[TonyBest]

Lol did they seriously need to fake furni for it

[MKR&*42]

Habbo on Channel 4 News!!

http://i.imgur.com/ufZIh.png

I WANT THIS FURNI!!

LMAO.

oh dear they 3i or w.e genuinely pulled out?

[Mark]

I'm really surprised that the investors knew nothing about this...

[Mathew]

THIS NEWS READER'S ACCENT?? WAT. He said "weren't" instead of "wasn't"... NOOB.

[Niall!]

I'm really surprised that the investors knew nothing about this...

They look at profits, doubt they've ever even logged in.

Someone keep us updated, I don't own a telelvision.

[mrwoooooooo]

I'm really surprised that the investors knew nothing about this...
Obv didn't do proper research. They just looked at the money Sulake were making.

[Smurfed-]

Exciting times lol.
--

Still pmsl at them calling it "Habboland".

Lmao! This is awkward because my whole family is watching it. And my dads getting really angry ;| I laughed when they said Habbo land aswell And omg that guy just completely changed that tweet! ;|

[Mark]

BINGO! 'It's clear the moderation didn't work in Habbo Hotel'. I could have told them that a year or two ago...

[MKR&*42]

Lmao! This is awkward because my whole family is watching it. And my dads getting really angry ;| I laughed when they said Habbo land aswell And omg that guy just completely changed that tweet! ;|

Oh dear LOL. Gl with your dad, thankfully my mum has gone out.

Omg they're doing false ban reasons omg yes.

[Jordan]

Love how the problems with moderation is really being shown now.

[Mathew]

Well they acknowledged that Habbos on the micro levels are torn on the issue, but it's still soooo biased.

[xxMATTGxx]

Two years ago it passed flying colours, probably wouldn't pass now eh.

[lTraditional]

For the last 10 minutes, they have reported everything on Habbo, quickly tune in now! :o

Threads merged by Jordan (Forum Super Moderator): Due to same topic

[Smurfed-]

Let's tell them to take a trip into HxHD...

[Mathew]

nice to see the foreign lady dodging the questions.

[Mewx12]

I was on the montage that they had in the beginning where they were all holding torches. My TV début~

No but really, it's nice that they're talking about the moderation issues in factual detail rather than just telling us about their report like last night.

[scottish]

Two years ago it passed flying colours, probably wouldn't pass now eh.

I'd be willing to bet that it would have passed easy if this wasn't put on the news.

[Aaron]

@Aaron (http://www.habboxforum.com/member.php?u=71156); Hmm ok xD. I'm just sure I read somewhere online that he was fired alongside the reason - because it all did seem rather abrupt, with Bucho6 he did radio shows and stuck around for a week or so before he officially vanished, Ludus just vanished overnight.


With Bucho6, I remember them doing a short campaign with him.. like as if he was being killed off the site? It was a weird campaign, can't remember it correctly, but it was something like that. :S

[Mathew]

EU have the power to close Habbo down. LET'S WITHDRAW FROM THE EU QUICKLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[DPS]

The only way i can see.. that they could keep it open.. is to change the age to join to 18... LOL

[FlyingJesus]

I never said exclusively girls. I am well aware that boys suffer the same terrible things - but there are more girls. I'm not ignorant.

If 1 in 6 isn't enough of a problem for you to believe that everyone ought to be educated on certain things (and not "especially" anyone as you said) then yes you are ignorant. We see more stories of girls being abducted because those are the stories that sell and that pull more on the heartstrings of the general public, same as how it's almost exclusively male perpetrators shown in the media despite the figures from earlier.


I have no idea about just attacks, without researching I would assume that girls suffer more serious attacks from guys but guys are more likely to be attacked by other men than women. More likely - not definitely.

And there's the problem. The reality is that the only violent crimes that females in the West are at disproportionate risk of are honour killings (obviously extremely rare) and stranger rape, which is the smallest percentage of rape cases and is far more common for males to be victims of than is usually believed. Meanwhile murder, suicide, child genital mutilation, police brutality, assault, death through poverty/homelessness, war deaths, workplace death, and violent theft/extortion are crimes that males face at a massively disproportionate rate - domestic violence, sexual coercion, child molestation, and emotional abuse are roughly equal in victimhood between men and women.

[Smurfed-]

Oh dear LOL. Gl with your dad, thankfully my mum has gone out.

Omg they're doing false ban reasons omg yes.

MY dads bloody fuming :|

[DPS]

EU have the power to close Habbo down. LET'S WITHDRAW FROM THE EU QUICKLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sulake is based in finland.. not the UK.

[AgnesIO]

This is a fabulous point - I mean they deliberately went looking for a dating room and they accepted a request from someone called "Sexiiboy"... what on Earth do they expect?

* They chose to sign up underage (if they were pretending they're 11)
* They chose to visit a dating room
* They chose to not even speak to the person before accepting a f/r
* They chose to not report the person for sexual activity
* They chose to remove the filter
* They chose not to delete that person



* Yes they were investigating what would happen, and the issue. THOUSANDS of REAL U11's log on, so it is essential for this to happen.
* That isn't the point. Habbo shouldn't have dating and strip rooms.
* Again, many 11 year olds do this - hence the problem.
* How do you know they didn't report them?
* Is the filter removed automatically now? Why was the filter ever optional?
* The point is the conversation should NEVER have got that far..


This makes me very sad.
I saw this on the news and had to come and see what was happening.

There are problems like this on every site, Sulake needed a reprimanding about moderation, but they did not need this.
Habbo and this site were a part of my childhood. It seems wrong that it should all end like this.

If there had been other news this week channel 4 would have not have made such a big deal. Its all very sad.

I must admit going onto habbox helpdesk and seeing the room so quiet was heartbreaking (I sound so sad!)

Sulake did need this. They have ignored users calls in the past. About time they got a kick up the arse.


They look at profits, doubt they've ever even logged in.

Someone keep us updated, I don't own a telelvision.

Sign up to tvcatchup.com - that is what I am watching on :)


--------------------------------------------


Was interesting for them to show the tweets from actual users stating how they were told to "Stop abusing the call for help" - that really does (er did) happen, and the staff should be sacked if they are that bad.

The report was quite interesting though.

[MKR&*42]

God, either the site'll be flooded or again or even more news of this will spread about online rapidly lmfao.

From what I've heard though, the news isn't in America xD. Also, I presume we're all still muted (cba to check)?

[wiktoria]

If it closes down it would be a bit of a shame because i probably won't speak to anyone i met on habbo anymore :( at least i'll have a social life tho lol1!!!!
Seriously what does that produce expect? If he goes into sexy singles >>>free beds<<< :¬: obviously people aren't going to be like "let's talk about maths :D". There's always going to be pedophiles online. I do think a moderator should've warned Dirtyboii though x

[Storking]

The comments from Habbo users were funny and spot on! "This is for emergencies only" "Ignore the user" are all too common. :rolleyes:

[DPS]

Why post this here? already a thread ;/

[Grig]

someone post links to the 2nd report when they're available plz!!!

[Niall!]

Tom reppin the meninists 2k12

Also, I dislike that everyone is saying OMG CYBER IS ALWAYS A PEDOPHILE

Habbo's full of hormonal teenagers, it's probably in 98% of cases just 2 lonely ones who got bored.

[AgnesIO]

MY dads bloody fuming :|

Fuming over what? :L

------------------------------------

Also, from my understanding of the law - I don't think it matters where the servers are? The EU could stop Sulake - the company itself, as opposed to just servers?

---------- Post added 13-06-2012 at 07:20 PM ----------


If it closes down it would be a bit of a shame because i probably won't speak to anyone i met on habbo anymore :( at least i'll have a social life tho lol1!!!!
Seriously what does that produce expect? If he goes into sexy singles >>>free beds<<< :¬: obviously people aren't going to be like "let's talk about maths :D". There's always going to be pedophiles online. I do think a moderator should've warned Dirtyboii though x

The point is a teenagers online virtual world that is easily accessible for those u13 should NOT have dating rooms, strip clubs etc.

Also the user should have been banned.

[Mathew]

Sulake is based in finland.. not the UK.
why does she seem to think it's a potential "remedy" then? stupid woman.

[Storking]

I wonder how many more hours or days we wait for these "changes", surely telling moderators to close down rooms with sexually explicit activity would cut out 95% of the issue. Yet they're taking their time with whatever they're doing..

[MKR&*42]

* Yes they were investigating what would happen, and the issue. THOUSANDS of REAL U11's log on, so it is essential for this to happen.
* That isn't the point. Habbo shouldn't have dating and strip rooms.
* Again, many 11 year olds do this - hence the problem.
* How do you know they didn't report them?
* Is the filter removed automatically now? Why was the filter ever optional?
* The point is the conversation should NEVER have got that far..

I completely agree with everything you've said and as for the bit in bold, that's the main issue behind it all. It's Sulake's fault for advertising/even having a [DATE] category but it also the user's fault for going there. On line 4, is that a genuine question ? (I'm confused aha) - you can remove it anytime you wish and quite frankly I don't know why it was made optional either. I suspect it was because you couldn't say certain phrases in the past (e.g. "Red rug" = "reD RUG"). I'd prefer it if only people of a certain age could remove the filter but then the issue of faking your age comes back lol.

As for the bit about report, we can only presume they didn't report. If they had, then they didn't mention that the user was most likely banned after being reported (not in all cases as clearly presented on the news tonight) but they refused to even state about the report feature to start with.

Admittedly it should never have got that far at all, but you can't stop that until the moderation improves drastically. Also, for some people it is literally the first thing they say to another user (sexual actions).

---

Oh also, his dad's fuming because his dad is convinced he's going to be sexually attacked on Habbo :l.

[mrwoooooooo]

Sulake is based in finland.. not the UK.
Finland is in the EU? or am i confused...

[Red]

Of all the good comments defending habbo that they received and they choose 'habbo is fun, we all know theres pervs on the site, part of the game is dodging them.' UGH!!!!!!!!

[lawrawrrr]

If 1 in 6 isn't enough of a problem for you to believe that everyone ought to be educated on certain things (and not "especially" anyone as you said) then yes you are ignorant. We see more stories of girls being abducted because those are the stories that sell and that pull more on the heartstrings of the general public, same as how it's almost exclusively male perpetrators shown in the media despite the figures from earlier.

Ok can you point out where I said it's only necessary to educate girls? Boys and men tend to report rape or sexual abuse less, therefore, lower statistics.


And there's the problem. The reality is that the only violent crimes that females in the West are at disproportionate risk of are honour killings (obviously extremely rare) and stranger rape, which is the smallest percentage of rape cases and is far more common for males to be victims of than is usually believed. Meanwhile murder, suicide, child genital mutilation, police brutality, assault, death through poverty/homelessness, war deaths, workplace death, and violent theft/extortion are crimes that males face at a massively disproportionate rate - domestic violence, sexual coercion, child molestation, and emotional abuse are roughly equal in victimhood between men and women.

I know that the gap between men and women is nowhere near as big as some people think. I didn't bother to research the real-life statistics it as it's not really relevant to this thread. Online, the percentage is higher for girls.