Epic Games has added a new feature to Fortnite’s reporting system. Players can now send audio files to demonstrate that another player is breaking the rules, for example by intimidating or bullying people.
Epic Games provides more explanation in a post about the so-called Voice Reporting function. When reporting another player, the audio recorded in the last five minutes will be sent. The reporter remains anonymous and if Epic determines that the reported player has violated the rules, he will be notified by email.
The feature is turned on by default for players under the age of 18 and they cannot turn it off themselves. Underage players who do not want their voice recorded can disable voice chat altogether or turn off their microphone. Parents can also adjust the options in the account settings. Players over the age of 18 can choose the options ‘Always on’ or ‘Off when possible’. The second option disables Voice Reporting, but only if the player is in a group of friendly players who have also chosen that option.
The snippets are stored on the device and not on Epic Games’ servers, the company says. The clips will be kept for a maximum of 14 days or as long as the measure taken against the offending player is in effect. If one of the parties objects to the measure, the retention period can be extended by up to 14 days.