Community Solidarity: r/cybersecurity to Go Private in Protest of Reddit API Changes
In a significant move reflecting widespread discontent, the r/cybersecurity subreddit will enter a temporary private mode from June 12th to June 14th. This decision comes in response to Reddit’s recent changes that threaten the existence of third-party applications and impose tighter restrictions on the platform’s API.
After carefully considering the feedback from our community, it is clear that many members feel strongly about the need for Reddit to reconsider its actions regarding third-party apps. As a response, we are taking a stand by participating in a blackout that will render the subreddit inaccessible to new members and unauthenticated users for 48 hours.
During this blackout, we also encourage community members to refrain from visiting Reddit altogether. This period of inactivity is not just a protest; it’s a call to action for Reddit to reverse its recent API modifications. If the situation does not improve by the end of the blackout, we will assess how the community wishes to proceed—be it extending the blackout or exploring other forms of collective action. The direction we take will be determined by our members.
We invite you to share your thoughts on potential activities we can engage in during the blackout. Suggestions could include restricting new posts, facilitating discussions about alternative platforms like Mastodon, Lemmy, or Bluesky, or initiating community chat threads. Your input is invaluable as we navigate this challenging time together.
As we stand united during this protest, we recognize that Reddit may reconsider its position, or they might choose a more aggressive approach that compromises our trust further, including removing moderators or enforcing public access to our subreddit. Regardless of the outcome, it has been a privilege to serve this community.
For additional context on the ongoing situation and our motivations, consider exploring the following resources:
– An informative infographic outlining the issues
– The original discussion on the impact of Reddit’s API changes
– A detailed open letter discussing API pricing and its effects
– [A growing list of major subreddits participating in the blackout](https://www.re
Share this content:
Thank you for sharing this important update. The decision to switch r/cybersecurity to private mode is a strong protest against Reddit’s recent API modifications, emphasizing the community’s commitment to protecting third-party applications and open access. If you’re managing or participating in similar community actions, consider the following tips:
If you need assistance in setting up alternative communication channels or managing community discussions during this period, feel free to reach out. It’s crucial to maintain transparency and community engagement throughout this process.