Each year at TwitchCon, a troubling incident appears to occur. In 2022, a situation involving a foam pit led to a broken back for one participant. In 2024, streamers associated with Kick harassed Twitch partners on the convention floor. Accounts of stalking, groping, and a lack of appropriate on-site responses are common.
Notable creators such as Valkyrae, QTCinderella, Hasan Piker, Disguised Toast, and Yvonnie opted not to attend in 2025, citing concerns for their safety. This year, Emiru, a streamer with almost two million followers, was assaulted during her meet-and-greet on the first day of TwitchCon 2025 in San Diego. Her assailant breached barriers, grabbed her face, and tried to kiss her before her own security personnel intervened. Reportedly, TwitchCon security was nowhere to be found. Twitch’s official response was a post on X highlighting the event’s dedication to safety and security.
Emiru voiced her frustration with Twitch’s management of the incident, noting that it was her own team, not the event’s security, that intervened, and that TwitchCon personnel did not respond appropriately. After the clip of the assault circulated widely, Twitch asserted that the assaulter was removed and banned, which Emiru disputed. She declared this would be her final TwitchCon, feeling overlooked and vulnerable despite having her own security.
Other conventions, like San Diego Comic-Con and VidCon, have more transparent safety protocols, with barriers and personnel dedicated to protecting celebrities. Comparisons emphasize TwitchCon’s deficiencies in safety measures. Jessica Wyatt, a Twitch partner, recounted a positive experience with PAX staff’s prompt action during a harassment case, contrasting it with TwitchCon’s failures.
The open nature of TwitchCon contributes to a sense of exposure, as streamers engage with fans without adequate security. The parasocial dynamics between streamers and fans blur boundaries, leading to feelings of entitlement and possible hazards. Twitch CEO Dan Clancy acknowledged the complexities of parasocial relationships and the necessity for ongoing investment in safety improvements.
Despite the implementation of security measures at TwitchCon, an intruder was still able to assault Emiru. The event’s priority on accessibility over safety perpetuates ongoing security issues. Streamer FanFan rejected the security provided by Twitch, opting for independence and bringing her own safety devices. TwitchCon’s security continues to be reactive rather than preventive, jeopardizing the attendance of more prominent streamers.
Additional reporting by Crystal Bell.