Online abuse is an unacceptable but widespread phenomenon in the modern-day sporting environment. For some time, the ISU has been aware of the impact of the online abuse that some Skaters suffer on their social media accounts. No Skater deserves this kind of negative harassment. 

Skaters relaxing on their phones at the Calm Zone at the ISU Short Track World Tour 2025 #1 Montreal (CAN) © ISU

In line with the strategic ISU Vision 2030 and its emphasis on safeguarding athletes, the ISU has been establishing partnerships with organizations such as United Against Online Abuse, and this season has teamed up with Arwen.ai to implement an AI-driven program designed to monitor and moderate abusive content across social media platforms. 

Any Skater competing at ISU Events who has received abusive comments on their social media can ask to join the ISU Online Protection Program. 

What the ISU Online Protection Program can do for Skaters

The Online Protection Program has two options, both of which work in 30 languages.

Auto-moderation: Abusive or toxic comments are instantly hidden before anyone can see them in Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, and Facebook.

Monitoring: Athlete Instagram, X, Tik Tok and Facebook accounts are checked for serious abuse. Harmful comments are flagged and reported if necessary.

How to join

Skaters who are receiving online hate or harassment, can ask to join the ISU Online Protection Program at any time during the 2025/26 season using this link. The service is funded by the ISU and is free of charge for athletes accepted to participate. Athletes follow some simple instructions to join the programs. Their privacy is always full respected, and the AI has no access to DMs or content the Skater has posted.

 Skaters at the ISU Speed Skating World Single Distances Championships 2025 in Hamar (NOR)  © ISU

The moderation service identifies and hides abusive or threatening comments from the Skater and their followers. If threats or serious abuse are detected, the ISU will be informed and will make a review to decide whether there should be any further investigation or action. Skaters can stop the moderation or monitoring whenever they like.

If you or a Skater you know is suffering from online abuse, the ISU is here to support you.