r/Cybersecurity to Go Private: A Community Stand Against Reddit’s API Changes

From June 12th to 14th, the r/cybersecurity subreddit will temporarily transition to a private status as part of a collective protest against Reddit’s recent alterations to its API policies, which have significantly impacted third-party applications.

In response to overwhelming community feedback gathered through comments and modmail, it’s evident that a majority of users are in favor of urging Reddit to reconsider its stance on these changes. The sense of loss surrounding the potential demise of third-party apps has galvanized community members, prompting this decisive action.

During the planned blackout, access to the subreddit will be restricted for new members and unauthenticated users. We strongly encourage all users to refrain from visiting Reddit during this period. Following the blackout, we will seek community input on the next steps we should take—be it extending the protest or pursuing alternative actions. The direction of our response will ultimately rest in the hands of community members.

As we prepare for this blackout, we invite individuals to share any ideas regarding initiatives that could be undertaken during this period. Suggestions may include limiting new posts and comments, introducing discussions about alternative social media platforms like Mastodon or Bluesky, or creating a general chat thread to maintain community engagement.

The future remains uncertain: Reddit could choose to reverse its recent API decisions or take a more aggressive approach to maintain its course. Regardless of the outcome, it has been a privilege to serve as moderators for this vibrant community.

For further insight into the current situation and the implications of Reddit’s API changes, please explore the following resources:
– Concise Infographic on Reddit’s API Changes courtesy of r/videos.
– A Call to Action: Protecting Third-Party Apps
– An Open Letter on API Pricing Impacts
– Communities Joining the Blackout

Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this important issue together.