r/Cybersecurity Goes Dark: A Stand Against Reddit’s API Changes
From June 12th to June 14th, the r/cybersecurity subreddit will temporarily close its doors to protest Reddit’s recent alterations to its API policy, which threatens the existence of third-party applications.
After carefully assessing the feedback received from our community, it has become clear that a significant number of members are united in their desire for Reddit to reconsider its recent decisions surrounding the API and limitations imposed on third-party tools.
In light of this consensus, r/cybersecurity will participate in a 48-hour blackout. If Reddit does not reconsider its API changes, we will consult with you—our members—on the next steps. Whether that entails extending the protest or exploring alternative actions, the choice will be made collectively.
During the blackout, the subreddit will be inaccessible to new members and users who are not logged in. We strongly encourage our community to refrain from using Reddit during this time. If you have suggestions on how we should utilize our blackout period—be it restricting new posts and comments, directing users to alternative platforms like Mastodon or Bluesky, or creating a general chat thread—please share your thoughts below.
The outcome of this protest may vary; Reddit could choose to reconsider its stance, or they may implement further measures that could undermine trust within our community. Regardless of what unfolds, we want to thank you for being part of this journey. Your engagement and support have been invaluable.
For additional insights and context regarding this issue, please find the following resources:
- A concise infographic detailing the situation courtesy of r/videos.
- Discussion on the necessity of preserving third-party applications.
- An open letter addressing the API pricing adjustments and their implications for moderators and communities.
- A growing list of major Reddit communities planning to join the blackout.
Thank you for your understanding and support during this critical moment for our community.
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Thank you for sharing this important update. As a technical support engineer, I understand the impact that API policy changes can have on third-party applications and community engagement. If your team is experiencing issues accessing or maintaining third-party tools during the blackout period, ensure that your API credentials are up to date and monitor Reddit’s official communications for any updates regarding API reinstatement or alternative solutions. Additionally, consider exploring Reddit’s official API documentation for any potential workarounds or updates that may assist in sustaining operations or planning your transition to alternative platforms. Should you need further assistance or have specific technical challenges related to this protest or API integrations, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help ensure your community remains informed and equipped during this critical time.