The Dark Side of IRL Streaming: N3on’s Swatting and Scams
N3on, one of the most controversial streamers on the Kick platform, has recently faced two major incidents: accusations of viewbotting and being swatted during a live IRL stream. Both events have sparked heated discussions in the streaming community and raised questions about the risks associated with online fame.
N3on’s Viewbotting Scandal: Fake Views Exposed
In September 2024, Kick staff confirmed that N3on had been using viewbotting to inflate his stream's viewer count. Viewbotting, the practice of artificially boosting viewer numbers using bots, has long been an issue on streaming platforms. N3on, at one point, was falsely displaying as many as 90,000 viewers, while his real average was closer to 36,000.
This revelation came after months of speculation, with N3on repeatedly denying any involvement in viewbotting. However, Kick’s investigation left little room for doubt, confirming that the majority of his viewership had been faked, tarnishing his reputation among both fans and fellow streamers.
Swatted During a Spa Stream: A Dangerous Trend in IRL Streaming
Adding to his controversy, N3on was swatted during a live IRL stream from a spa in September 2024. Swatting, a dangerous prank where false emergency calls lead to armed police responses, is a growing risk for streamers, particularly those who broadcast in public locations.
During the stream, N3on’s bodyguard, dressed in black and wearing a ski mask, was mistaken for a threat. Police responded to a fake report that someone had been shot, leading them to detain the bodyguard at gunpoint. N3on and his viewers watched the chaotic situation unfold, with the streamer expressing frustration at being targeted once again by swatters.
Community Reactions and N3on’s Response
The streaming community has been divided over both the viewbotting and swatting incidents. While some fans continue to support N3on, many have expressed disappointment over the botting scandal, calling it a betrayal of trust. Other streamers on Kick have voiced concerns about the platform’s ability to address viewbotting and swatting effectively.
N3on himself has not publicly addressed the viewbotting accusations in detail, but his response to the swatting incident highlighted the frustration many streamers feel when targeted by such pranks. Swatting is not only disruptive but can also put innocent lives at risk, a point N3on emphasized during his stream.
The Fallout: What’s Next for N3on on Kick?
The viewbotting scandal and repeated swatting incidents could have serious consequences for N3on’s future on Kick. The platform, which is already facing scrutiny over its handling of these issues, may be forced to take stronger action to prevent further abuse. N3on’s career, while currently thriving, may face additional challenges if his reputation continues to suffer.
For now, the streamer remains active, but the controversies surrounding him have sparked an ongoing debate about the balance between IRL streaming’s entertainment value and the real-world risks it can bring.
Conclusion: The Cost of Fame in the Streaming World
N3on’s recent controversies highlight the dark side of online fame. While IRL streams can be exciting and engaging, they also come with risks, as seen with the dangers of swatting and the temptation of viewbotting. As the streaming industry continues to evolve, platforms like Kick must find ways to protect their creators and maintain trust with viewers.
Whether N3on can recover from these incidents remains to be seen, but his story serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring streamers about the pitfalls of chasing fame in the digital age.
