R/Cybersecurity to Go Dark: A Community Protest Against Redddit’s API Changes

From June 12th to June 14th, the r/cybersecurity subreddit will temporarily close its doors to highlight growing concerns over Reddit’s recent API changes and the impact on third-party applications.

After carefully reviewing community feedback and discussions through modmail, it is evident that a significant portion of our members strongly oppose Reddit’s decision to restrict API access and eliminate third-party apps. As a result, if these changes are not reconsidered, the r/cybersecurity community will participate in a 48-hour blackout, commencing on June 12th.

During this period, the subreddit will be unavailable to new and unauthenticated users. We encourage all community members to refrain from visiting Reddit altogether during this time. Should Reddit not reconsider its stance, we will consult with the community about potential next steps—be it extending the protest or exploring alternative options. The call will ultimately rest with you, our valued members.

If you have suggestions for how we can utilize this blackout period effectively—whether that involves limiting new posts and comments, introducing alternative platforms such as Mastodon or Bluesky, or initiating a general discussion thread—please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Reddit’s response could vary, potentially leading to a reversal of current decisions or further actions that undermine trust, such as replacing moderation teams or enforcing public access to our subreddit. Regardless of the outcome, it has been a privilege to serve this community.