# System Message A system message is generated by backend events (for example, banning or muting a user). The SDK renders them automatically in [`VirtualizedMessageList`](/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/components/core-components/virtualized_list/) and [`MessageList`](/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/components/core-components/message_list/). This guide shows how to override the default component. ## Best Practices - Keep system messages visually distinct but not disruptive. - Preserve the message text and timestamp for audit clarity. - Avoid exposing sensitive actor details unless your policy allows it. - Use `MessageSystem` override for layout changes, not just styling. - Test system messages for moderation events and permission changes. ### Default System Message Component The default system message component is [`EventComponent`](https://github.com/GetStream/stream-chat-react/blob/master/src/components/EventComponent/EventComponent.tsx). It renders when `message.type === "system"`. ![Default System Message](@chat-sdk/react/v13/_assets/default-system-message.png) ### Custom System Message Component Our custom component shows the message text, date, and actor (user who triggered the event). To override the default, pass `MessageSystem` to [`Channel`](/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/components/core-components/channel/), which injects it into [`ComponentContext`](/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/components/contexts/component_context/). To see your component in action, try muting a user with the `/mute` command followed by an `@mention`. These commands must be enabled in the [Dashboard](https://dashboard.getstream.io/). ![Custom System Message](@chat-sdk/react/v13/_assets/custom-system-message.png) --- This page was last updated at 2026-04-21T07:55:45.504Z. For the most recent version of this documentation, visit [https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/guides/customization/system_message/](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v13/guides/customization/system_message/).