Activision Blizzard 's legal troubles continue as the video game giant is being investigated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) . The SEC is investigating Activision Blizzard for misconduct, including discrimination against employees and sexual harassment. The investigation comes after a lawsuit filed by the state of California over the company's alleged toxic working conditions.
Learn more: Activision Blizzard sued for ongoing sexual harassment
The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) alleges in the lawsuit that the company has created a culture of “ongoing sexual harassment” and gender discrimination. It also alleges that such behavior includes top executives at the company, while everyone knows that such incidents are happening.
Since the lawsuit was filed, several female Activision Blizzard employees have confirmed the allegations.
See also: #AppleToo: Stories of toxic workplace behaviors are published
The SEC has subpoenaed Activision, requesting documents, board meeting minutes and other evidence from 2019 regarding allegations of sexual misconduct. The CEO, Bobby Kotick, and other executives have been called to speak about the allegations, while the SEC has also subpoenaed former and current employees.
Activision Blizzard responded, through a spokesperson, that the company is cooperating with the SEC on this investigation.
See also: 5 more women sue Amazon: Gender, racial discrimination and harassment
The California Department of Fair Employment filed the lawsuit against Activision Blizzard in July. Following the lawsuit, several prominent members of the company resigned, including president J. Allen Brack.
Last week, Activision received another complaint, accusing it of threats and intimidation against employees who spoke out about workplace harassment.
A few words about Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard, Inc. is an American video game company headquartered in Santa Monica, California. The company was formed in July 2008 through the merger of Activision, Inc. and Vivendi Games. Activision Blizzard currently comprises five business units: Activision Publishing, Blizzard Entertainment, King, Major League Gaming, and Activision Blizzard Studios.
Source: CNET
