Square Enix has implemented a comprehensive anti-harassment policy to safeguard its employees and partners. This policy clearly defines unacceptable behavior, encompassing threats of violence, defamation, and other forms of harassment. Square Enix retains the right to suspend services and pursue legal action against individuals engaging in such conduct.

In today's interconnected digital world, harassment within the gaming industry is an unfortunate reality. Square Enix's proactive stance follows numerous high-profile incidents, including threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to online aggression. This new policy demonstrates a commitment to protecting its workforce.

The policy, detailed on the Square Enix website, protects everyone from support staff to executives. While valuing fan feedback, Square Enix firmly states that harassment is unacceptable. The policy explicitly outlines various forms of harassment, including:

Square Enix Anti-Harassment Policy

Harassment:

• Acts of violence or violent behavior
• Abusive language, intimidation, coercion, duress, excessive pursuit or reprimand
• Defamation/slander, denial of personality, personal attacks (including emails, contact form submissions, online comments or posts), advance notice of wrongdoing, or advance notice of business obstruction
• Persistent inquiries or repeated visits
• Trespassing on company property
• Unlawful restraint, including via phone calls and online inquiries
• Discriminatory speech or conduct based on race, ethnicity, religion, family origin, occupation, etc.
• Infringement of privacy through unauthorized photography or video recording
• Sexual harassment or stalking

Undue Demands:

• Unreasonable requests for product changes, exchanges, or monetary compensation
• Unreasonable demands for apologies (including specifying employee or partner positions)
• Excessive requests for products or services beyond socially acceptable norms
• Unreasonable and excessive demands for employee punishment

This policy underscores the need for such measures within the gaming industry. Numerous instances of online harassment targeting developers, voice actors, and other industry professionals have prompted this decisive action. Past incidents, including death threats against Square Enix staff and the cancellation of events due to threats, highlight the severity of the issue. This policy reflects a commitment to creating a safer and more respectful environment for all.