UWSC Unified Web Standards Council

Specification

Ratings & content descriptors

WCR uses five primary ratings and a small set of descriptors to describe what visitors may encounter. It’s not a moral score — it’s a label.

WCR-E · Everyone

General audience. Appropriate for all ages. No explicit content, limited strong language (if any), and no disturbing imagery.

  • Educational or professional sites
  • Static marketing pages
  • Well-moderated, family-safe communities

WCR-T · Teen

Recommended for ages 13+. May include memes, mild language, light fantasy violence, or non-graphic discussions of mature topics.

  • Fandom communities
  • Gaming sites and streams
  • Moderated social spaces

WCR-M · Mature

Intended for ages 17+. Strong language, intense themes, realistic or stylized violence, and complex discussions are possible.

  • Debate-heavy forums
  • Horror or thriller storytelling
  • Open creative communities

WCR-A · Adult

18+ only. May contain explicit sexual content, graphic imagery, or real-money gambling. User interactions may be only lightly moderated.

  • Adult content platforms
  • Explicit art / erotica sites
  • Casinos and betting services

WCR-X · Restricted Realm

High-risk or highly sensitive online environments. This rating is about systemic risk, not just explicit material.

  • Financial trading & speculation tools
  • Deepfake or synthetic media platforms
  • Political influence networks

Content descriptors

Descriptors act like ingredients on a label. A site can list none, some, or many. They are added via meta tags or JSON.

Code Name What it indicates
UGC User-generated content Users can create posts, comments, uploads, or other content.
COMM Community interaction Discussion between users (forums, replies, social threads).
CHAT Real-time chat Live messaging, chat rooms, or direct messages between users.
AI-GEN AI-generated content Content is generated or significantly assisted by AI systems.
FIN Financial activity Payments, trading, crowdfunding, or financial instruments.
DATA Personal data Collection of personal information beyond basic analytics.
TRACK Tracking Behavioral tracking, targeted advertising, or profiling.
GAMB Gambling mechanics Real-money gambling or chance-based rewards with value.
NSFW Explicit content Adult sexual material, graphic nudity, or explicit imagery.
HOR Horror themes Disturbing imagery, intense horror, or unsettling content.
DARK Dark patterns Addictive UX features: infinite scroll, lootbox-like loops, or aggressive notifications.
SOCIAL Social network features Follows, feeds, reactions, and algorithmic social timelines.
KIDSAFE Kid-safe commitment Site is actively designed and moderated as safe for children.