r/Cybersecurity to Go Private: Community Protests API Changes

In an emerging wave of discontent, r/cybersecurity has announced it will temporarily shut its doors to the public from June 12th to June 14th. This decision stems from strong feedback from our community expressing dissatisfaction with Reddit’s recent modifications to its application programming interface (API), particularly the restrictions imposed on third-party applications.

The overwhelming sentiment within our community is a call for Reddit to rethink its stance on API access and the future of third-party applications. Should Reddit persist with its current approach without any modifications, we are preparing for a 48-hour blackout, during which the subreddit will be accessible only to existing members, barring new or unauthenticated users.

During this period, we encourage community members to refrain from logging onto Reddit, amplifying our collective concerns. Furthermore, we invite your thoughts on our next steps during the blackout. Whether it’s limiting posts and comments, introducing alternative platforms like Mastodon, Lemmy, or Bluesky, or simply fostering discussion in a dedicated chat thread, your input will shape our actions.

We recognize the possibility of Reddit reversing its recent decisions, but we also understand that more drastic measures could arise, including unwarranted actions against our moderation team or forcing our subreddit to remain public against our wishes. Regardless of the outcome, we are honored to serve this community and advocate for what matters most to you.

For those seeking further clarity on the current situation and its implications, here are some resources:

• A concise infographic outlining the key issues (View Here)
• An in-depth discussion on preventing Reddit from diminishing third-party applications (Read More)
• An open letter addressing the ramifications of the API pricing changes for moderators and the wider community (Explore Further)
• A growing list of major Reddit communities participating in the blackout (Check It Out)

Together, let’s make our voices heard and strive for a more favorable outcome for our