In response to Reddit’s API changes last year, many subreddits went private or changed to NSFW to protest against ads on the platform. To avoid such disruptions, Reddit has introduced new rules where moderators must request approval when updating a community’s status from public to private or changing from SFW to NSFW.
These changes, effective immediately, will primarily affect larger communities. Requests to switch types will be instantly approved for communities under 30 days old or with fewer than 5,000 members.
For other communities, an admin will respond within 24 hours. Reddit assures that there is enough support to handle these requests promptly and continuously.
While moderators can temporarily restrict posts and comments for up to seven days without approval to prevent abuse, any permanent changes will require a request submission.
Reddit clarified on r/modnews that the update aims to maintain platform stability and uphold rules, not to stifle user protests.
The social media platform informed the Mod Council, comprising over 100 subreddit moderators, in advance to gather feedback and insights on this update.
