Reddit shadowbanning is a covert user restriction where a person can post and comment as usual. Still, their content becomes invisible to everyone except themselves and the subreddit moderators. Unlike a typical ban, a shadowban doesn’t notify the user, making it difficult to detect and address.
Reddit Shadowban Checking Tool
In this guide, we will explain:
- What Reddit shadowbanning is.
- How to check if you’re shadowbanned.
- Strategies to avoid shadowbans and recover from them.
What Is a Reddit Shadowban?
A Reddit shadowban occurs when a user is restricted from effectively contributing new posts and comments on the platform. While users can still create posts and comments, their submissions become invisible to everyone except themselves and the subreddit moderators.
Key Characteristics of a Reddit Shadowban
- Posts and Comments Are Invisible
Shadowbanned users can technically post and comment, but their contributions don’t appear to the general public. Instead, their submissions are automatically sent to the subreddit’s spam queue, requiring moderator approval to be visible. - No Interaction Feedback
If you’ve been posting on Reddit without receiving upvotes, downvotes, or comments, it could indicate that you are shadowbanned. - User Profile Visibility
When shadowbanned, your user profile is not visible to others. However, you can still see it, making the shadowban difficult to detect without external tools.
Shadowban vs. Subreddit Ban vs. Suspension
- Shadowban
- Posts and comments are sent to the spam queue.
- It is only visible to the user and subreddit moderators.
- It is hard to identify without tools or feedback.
- Subreddit Ban
- A moderator bans a user from a specific subreddit.
- The user is notified and cannot post or comment in the banned subreddit.
- Suspension
- Admins temporarily or permanently disable an account.
- Suspended accounts are hidden from other users. In permanent suspensions, a notice replaces the user’s page.
How Shadowbans Can Be Triggered
Some subreddits use AutoModerator to impose shadowban-like effects on specific users, further complicating the situation. Tools or direct communication with Reddit admins may be required to confirm a shadowban.
If shadowbanned, contacting Reddit admins is the only way to reverse it.
How to Check If You’re Shadowbanned
Determining whether you’ve been shadowbanned on Reddit can be tricky, but there are several methods you can use to confirm your ban status.
1. Use a Reddit Shadowban Tester
The simplest way to check if you’re shadowbanned is using a Reddit shadowban checker tool. Tools like the one available at the top of this page allow you to:
- Enter your Reddit username.
- Click the “Check” button.
The tool will analyze your account and confirm whether you’re shadowbanned.
2. Use Incognito Mode
Another effective method involves using your browser’s incognito mode:
- Open your Reddit profile or a post link in an incognito browser window.
- If the page says, “This account has been suspended,” your account or posts are shadowbanned.
- Your account is not shadowbanned if the post title and body are visible.
This method mimics how a public user views your account or content.
3. Post in r/ShadowBan
You can post in r/ShadowBan, and then users in that subreddit can check you out by hovering over your account. That will help users to know if you are shadowbanned or not, and they will comment to let you know.
Why Does My Reddit Account Get Shadowbanned? How to Avoid Getting Banned?
Reddit shadowbans and suspensions can occur for various reasons, often tied to behaviours that violate the platform’s guidelines. Although the exact reasons may not always be clear, understanding the common triggers and adhering to best practices can help you avoid these actions.
Common Reasons for Shadowbans on Reddit
1. Spamming
- Posting irrelevant or promotional links excessively.
- Submitting identical content across multiple subreddits.
2. Inappropriate Advertising
- Sharing ads for commercial products that lack relevance or value to the community.
3. Content Exclusivity
- Posting links only to your blog or personal site without contributing diverse content.
4. Suspicious Account Activity
- Using a VPN for account creation may flag your account as suspicious.
- Engaging in vote manipulation, such as using multiple accounts to upvote or downvote content.
5. Harassment or Toxic Behavior
- Following users across subreddits or hassling them.
- Sending mass private messages (PMs) without consent.
6. Rule Violations
- Making repetitive comments or focusing on a single topic excessively.
- Submitting inappropriate content, such as threats, child pornography, or non-consensual material.
- Impersonating others or posting personal information (doxxing).
7. Interaction with Admins
- Abusing or disrespecting Reddit administrators or moderators.
8. Abuse of Reddit’s Voting and Reporting Systems
- Asking for upvotes/downvotes or using multiple accounts for this purpose.
- Submitting nuisance reports to target other users unfairly.
How to Avoid Getting Shadowbanned
1. Follow Reddit’s Content Guidelines
- Avoid sharing spammy or irrelevant links.
- Post diverse, high-quality content that adds value to the subreddit.
2. Respect Subreddit Rules
- Read and adhere to each subreddit’s unique guidelines.
- Avoid posting promotional content unless explicitly allowed.
3. Maintain Ethical Behavior
- Don’t harass or stalk other users.
- Avoid sending mass PMs or automated messages without prior approval.
- Ensure your comments and posts remain respectful and non-threatening.
4. Use Your Account Responsibly
- Avoid using a VPN for account creation.
- Diversify your content sources instead of only promoting your own.
- Don’t interact with questionable subreddits or engage in shady activities.
5. Avoid Automation Abuse
- Don’t use bots unless you have explicit admin approval.
- Ensure your bot’s actions comply with Reddit’s terms of service.
6. Be Mindful of Voting Practices
- Don’t ask for votes or engage in vote manipulation.
- Avoid excessive downvoting of other users’ posts or comments.
7. Foster Positive Community Engagement
- Avoid disruptive behaviour like doxxing or engaging in heated arguments.
- Follow the principles outlined in Reddit’s Reddiquette to enhance your interactions.
8. Abide by Reddit’s Terms of Service
- Don’t manipulate the platform’s systems (e.g., CSS-based manipulations).
- Ensure you meet the platform’s age requirement (13+ years).
- Avoid rejoining a banned subreddit with a different account.
Additional Considerations
- Reddiquette Compliance: Familiarize yourself with Reddit’s informal guidelines to maintain a positive experience.
- Weak Evidence of Shadowban Triggers: While submitting links to multiple subreddits or using multiple accounts in one subreddit may raise suspicion, the evidence for shadowbans caused by these actions is weak. Exercise caution regardless.
TL;DR:
To avoid shadowbans, avoid spam, harassment, vote manipulation, doxxing, or inappropriate content. Respect Reddit’s rules and policies to maintain a healthy account.
How to Get Un-Shadowbanned on Reddit
Recovering from a Reddit shadowban can be a challenging and time-consuming process. However, persistence and respectful communication can improve your chances of resolving the issue. Follow these steps to attempt to get un-shadowbanned.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Un-Shadowbanned
1. Verify Your Shadowban Status
- Use a Reddit shadowban checker tool (like the one at the top of this page) to confirm if your account is shadowbanned.
- Alternatively, use incognito mode or test your profile visibility.
2. Contact the Reddit Admins
- Contact Reddit admins via the official Contact Us page or private messages.
- Frequency: Send messages no more than once a week to avoid being flagged as spammy.
- Include:
- Your Reddit username.
- A polite request for an explanation.
- An assurance of compliance with Reddit’s rules.
3. Provide Evidence to Prove Your Innocence
- If the shadowban was applied in error:
- Identify posts, comments, or messages that may have triggered the ban.
- Take screenshots, underline key points, and attach them to your message.
- If you unintentionally violated the rules, explain the situation and demonstrate a willingness to correct your behaviour.
4. Be Respectful and Patient
- Address the admins politely and express your concern about contributing positively to the Reddit community.
- Avoid spamming the admins, as excessive messages may worsen the situation.
Sample Message to Reddit Admins
Here is a sample message you can send to Reddit admins to appeal for a shadowban review:
Subject: Request for Assistance with My Reddit Account (Username: [Your Reddit Username])
Dear Reddit Admin,
I hope this message finds you well. I am requesting assistance regarding my Reddit account username: [Your Reddit Username].
Recently, I discovered that my account appears to have been shadowbanned. I have been an active and responsible member of the Reddit community for [number of years/months], and I am both surprised and concerned to find myself in this situation.
I have reviewed Reddit’s rules and guidelines, and to the best of my knowledge, I have not engaged in any behaviour that would warrant a shadowban. I value the Reddit community and have always strived to contribute positively to discussions and subreddits.
I kindly request that you review my account and explain the shadowban. If there has been a misunderstanding or if I have inadvertently violated any rules, I am more than willing to address the issue and take corrective actions.
I understand that maintaining the integrity of the Reddit community is paramount, and I fully support the measures taken to ensure a respectful and engaging environment. I assure you that my intentions have always been in line with Reddit’s community standards.
Please find attached any relevant information or evidence that may support my case. [Attach screenshots or links if applicable.]
I would greatly appreciate your prompt attention to this matter, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
If you require any additional information or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Email Address].
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Reddit Username]
[Your Contact Information]
Persistence Pays Off: If you don’t receive a response immediately, follow up weekly. Patience and respectful communication are crucial.
Rapid Resolutions: Some users reported having their accounts unbanned within hours of sending a polite and detailed message to Reddit admins.
Acknowledging Mistakes: Users who admitted their mistakes and promised to follow Reddit’s rules were often met with leniency.
Final Note
While getting un-shadowbanned is not guaranteed, adhering to the above process gives you the best chance. Use this opportunity to review your activity on Reddit and ensure compliance with community guidelines to avoid future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A Reddit shadowban lasts indefinitely unless you take action to address it. Unlike temporary account suspensions, shadowbans do not expire. You will need to appeal to Reddit admins to have the shadowban removed.
To recover from a shadowban:
Submit an appeal to Reddit’s support team.
Explain your situation respectfully and provide any evidence to show you didn’t violate the platform’s rules. If you’ve followed Reddit’s guidelines, the support team may help you restore your account.
The permanence of a shadowban depends on the reason for the ban:
If you violated Reddit’s terms of service, the shadowban is likely permanent.
If it was a mistake or minor issue, you might have a chance to appeal and recover your account.
Yes, you can post and comment while shadowbanned, but your submissions will be invisible to other users. Only you and subreddit moderators can see them, as they are sent directly to the spam queue.
Shadowbans are designed to be subtle and covert. Unlike subreddit bans or account suspensions, Reddit does not notify users of a shadowban. The lack of notification is why it’s essential to use tools or indirect methods to confirm your ban status.
Conclusion
Shadowbanning on Reddit can be challenging to navigate, but with the right understanding, it’s manageable. By following the tips in this guide, users can prevent shadowbans and address them effectively if they occur.
Though the process may require effort, persistence and compliance with Reddit’s rules can help restore full access and ensure a smoother experience on the platform.
