# System Message

> **Info:** This is documentation for **Stream Chat React SDK v14**, which is no longer actively maintained. For up-to-date documentation, see the [latest version (v15)](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/).

A system message is generated by backend events (for example, banning or muting a user). The SDK renders them automatically in [`VirtualizedMessageList`](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v14/components/core-components/virtualized-list/) and [`MessageList`](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v14/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](https://getstream.io/docs-assets/images/b87a41d7e352.png)

### Custom System Message Component

Our custom component shows the message text, date, and actor (user who triggered the event). Register it with `WithComponents` so the nested `MessageList` or `VirtualizedMessageList` can read it from [`ComponentContext`](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v14/components/contexts/component-context/).

>
> **Note:** 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://getstream.io/signin/?product=chat).
>

![Custom System Message](https://getstream.io/docs-assets/images/fed041911f85.png)

---

For the most recent version of this documentation, visit [https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v14/guides/customization/system-message/](https://getstream.io/chat/docs/sdk/react/v14/guides/customization/system-message/).