YouTube revises monetization guidelines

YouTube has announced an update making only a certain set of is eligible for monetization in the app. The content should follow advertiser-friendly guidance in order to get monetized.
With this new update and monetization policy, creators have expressed frustration on YouTube. A single foul can cut off their video from the monetization opportunity on YouTube.

The guidelines essentially cover illegal and offensive content; but in terms of specific changes, YouTube is updating these elements:

Adult content: Adult links, bad language, and video thumbnails with adult content are not eligible for monetization.

Violence: Videos that depict implied moments of death, violent video games, and dead bodies shown in isolation will not be eligible for ad revenue. In the context of violent activities, YouTube will also demonetize performances made "specifically to shock and disgust."

Harmful or dangerous acts: Risky behaviours or stunts in which children are either participants or victims may not generate advertising revenue. It is a crucial area of focus in light of the surge in child fatalities brought on by participation in risky online activities.

Inappropriate language: Though YouTube does mention that it's not categorising words like "hell" and "damn" as profanity any more, it claims that all forms of profanity will now be treated similarly and will not be classified based on levels of severity.
Though it is weird: ‘Content, where profanity is AFTER the first 8 seconds, may receive ad revenue. However, if profanity is in the first 8 seconds of the video, then it will not monetize.’

Drug-related content: Drug usage or mentions of drugs in gaming content will now also result in de-monetization, in addition to the restrictions that already apply to the display and discussion of illegal narcotics.

Enabling dishonest behavior: The new policy is created to address the growing trend of spoof videos featuring impersonators of retail staff. According to YouTube, impersonating a retail store employee without the owner's consent will also result in demonetization. The use of hacking software in competitive e-sports is currently prohibited, making cheating in video games another facet of this category.
YouTube’s guidelines are evolving in line with shifting creator behaviors and activities.

Here’s an overview of YouTube’s ad guidelines around profanity -