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Comment on [Megathread] Payments Processors & Collective Shout VS NSFW games

Not an authoritative source, but a Redditor claimed that the term “payment processors” is being misconstrued in a way that could misdirect blame. Visa and Mastercard have given some people responses claiming they take no position on adult content, and it’s possible they’re telling the truth.

Basically, payment processors by this guy’s definition are lesser known companies that handle other middle level processing; like Stripe, PayPal, or Heartland, as well as many others you’ve never heard of. And, what makes the debate difficult with them is that they’ve always viewed adult content as a “risky” subject - due to higher frequency of support cases, chargebacks, general frustration, etc. As such, some processor that sell their service to adult businesses may charge higher rates - rates that stores like Steam or Itch are probably less willing to pay for 90% of their library.

Take that summary with a grain of salt as it’s only based on rumors and indirect industry knowledge. Not an indication people shouldn’t complain, since Visa/MC could still choose to take a stance and investigate wrongdoing, and might not be totally honest; but it’s possible the full blame will go to other specific businesses.

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acosmichippo@lemmy.world ⁨2⁩ ⁨days⁩ ago

And, what makes the debate difficult with them is that they’ve always viewed adult content as a “risky” subject - due to higher frequency of support cases, chargebacks, general frustration, etc. As such, some processor that sell their service to adult businesses may charge higher rates - rates that stores like Steam or Itch are probably less willing to pay for 90% of their library.

but game platforms are clearly not your typical “adult business”. there are payment issues with adult businesses because they use shady billing practices like dark patterns, automatic renewals after a “free” trial, etc. I don’t know of any popular game platform that is anywhere close to that shady.

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- Katana314@lemmy.world ⁨2⁩ ⁨days⁩ ago
  I don’t think that’s really the distinction in adult businesses - entertainment companies often use those same dark patterns around trials/subscriptions. Maybe some adult businesses do too, but that’s not unique.
  
  My understanding is that the higher rate is related more to the product and customer behavior, rather than the seller’s behavior. By some trend, customers are more likely to refund a hentai tentacle game than a regular platformer.
  
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  - acosmichippo@lemmy.world ⁨2⁩ ⁨days⁩ ago
    of course it’s not unique but they take it to an extreme.
    
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