Is BitChute Safe? 

If you use or plan to use BitChute, you need to know: Is BitChute safe? 

Below, we explain whether BitChute is: 

• Safe to use. 
• Good for privacy. 

We also look at some steps you can take to improve both your safety and privacy when using this online service. 

What Is BitChute?

BitChute is a video hosting platform launched in 2017 as a “free-speech” alternative to more mainstream platforms like YouTube. 

BitChute is known for a hands-off approach to content moderation and allows content, including controversial political views and discussions, that may be banned or restricted on other platforms. 

Because of this, the platform is particularly attractive to communities with potentially controversial viewpoints. BitChute faced criticism and regulatory scrutiny for hosting hate-fueled material, extremist propaganda, and misinformation. 

Is BitChute Safe?

Depends on your definition of “safe.” 

BitChute is known for hosting controversial and unmoderated content, so users may encounter misinformation, hate speech, extremist viewpoints, and conspiracy theories. 

For example, in the first quarter of 2023, BitChute received 2,474 moderation requests for incitement to hatred, 1,650 of which BitChute found valid. It also received 648 moderation requests for harmful activities, of which it found 433 valid, and 191 moderation requests for harassment, of which 47 were found to be valid. 

This makes the platform potentially unsafe for users who may be vulnerable to misleading or harmful content. 

Additionally, BitChute has been flagged in some countries for promoting dangerous or offensive content. 

That said, a September 2022 review of BitChute’s moderation policies indicates that the platform does take action beyond merely addressing spam or meeting legal mandates (it removes posts and suspends or bans accounts deemed offensive). 

Some of these actions have been influenced by government oversight. For instance, in 2021, BitChute revised its community guidelines to include a prohibition on “incitement to hatred” after consultations with Ofcom, the UK oversight agency.

In terms of technical security, BitChute is not considered inherently unsafe. 

In its privacy policy, BitChute says it uses “appropriate collection, storage and processing practices and security measures” to protect your information. 

It also says that all sensitive and private communications between users and the service are secured using SSL encryption and digital signatures.  

BitChute users can secure their accounts with two-factor authentication. 

Because Bitchute operates outside the typical content moderation frameworks seen on larger platforms, there may be risks related to the type of links or third-party services that users encounter through the platform.

In 2022, a criminal known as Pompompurin claimed to possess and was selling the personal data of 2,988,494 BitChute users on a hacker forum for $4,000. 

Is BitChute Private?

Depends on your definition of “private.” 

In its privacy policy, BitChute outlines the kind of data it collects, why, and with whom it shares it.

The platform collects two types of data: 

• Personal identification information. This is collected from registered users when they voluntarily provide it and can include your name, age, residential and billing address, email address, phone number, and payment card details. 
• Non-personal identification information. This is collected automatically as you interact with the service. It includes data such as your device type, operating system, browser information, and details about your connection (like your IP address and ISP).

BitChute uses this data to provide a better service, tailor user experiences, and communicate with users.

The company says it does not sell, trade, or rent your personal identification data. 

It may, however, share generic aggregated information with advertisers, affiliates, and business partners. It may also share data with professional advisors (e.g., lawyers and accountants) and third-party service providers. 

BitChute may disclose your information without your express permission if it’s required to do so by law, to protect their or others’ rights or property, and in case of a merger, acquisition, etc. 

Terms of Service; Didn’t Read (ToS;DR), a project that rates internet services’ terms of service and privacy policies, gives BitChute a “Grade C.” This means, “The terms of service are okay but some issues need your consideration.” 

For comparison’s sake, both YouTube and Vimeo get a “Grade E” on ToS;DR (which means, “The terms of service raise very serious concerns.”) 

ToS;DR notes that: 

• BitChute holds onto content after users delete it.
• Terms can be changed at any time without notice to users.
• Accounts can be deleted without notice or reason.
• The service can sell users’ personal data.
• Consent is assumed rather than asked for.

On the plus side, ToS;DR says that you maintain ownership of your data and you’re informed about BitChute’s security practices. 

How to Improve Your Safety and Privacy On BitChute

Follow the below steps for a safer and more private experience when using BitChute. 

• Avoid creating an account if possible. Watching videos on BitChute without creating an account minimizes the amount of personal data you share with the platform. If you don’t need to upload or comment, browsing without an account enhances your privacy.
• Block third-party trackers. BitChute uses third-party services for ads and analytics, which can track your activity. Install an ad-blocker or use a privacy-focused browser extension to block tracking cookies and reduce data collection by third parties.
• Use a privacy-conscious browser. Consider using browsers designed to limit data tracking. These browsers come with built-in tools to block trackers and provide better protection for your online privacy.
• Limit personal information in your profile. If you do create an account, avoid adding personal details like your real name or location. Use a throwaway email address and avoid linking your BitChute account to any other personal or social media accounts to minimize data sharing.
• Regularly clear your browser cache and cookies. This prevents BitChute or third-party trackers from keeping a log of your browsing habits over time. Clear your cookies and cache after each session for added privacy.