Introduction to Reddit’s New Feature

On Tuesday, Reddit announced the launch of a new feature designed to provide users with enhanced control over their privacy settings, specifically in relation to the content shared on their user profiles.

Details of the New Feature

The company is introducing an update that includes a “Content and Activity” setting, enabling users to determine which content from the subreddits they participate in will be visible on their profiles. This setting applies to both their posting and commenting history, offering users a higher degree of control over their online presence.

By default, all posts and comments will remain visible as they were before the update. However, with the new setting, users have the option to hide all their public posts and comments, including those made directly on their profiles, thereby maximizing their privacy.

Alternatively, users can choose to selectively display posts and comments from specific communities on their profile while keeping others hidden. This flexibility allows users to tailor their profile according to their preferences and comfort levels regarding privacy.

The setting can be found under a new “Curate your profile” section, where users can manage the visibility of their content. Additionally, options to toggle on or off NSFW (Not Safe For Work) content and activity, as well as a Followers toggle to show or hide follower count, are available, providing users with comprehensive control over their profile’s appearance and content.

Impact of the Update

This update adds a significant layer of privacy to Reddit, addressing a concern that was previously unmet. The ability for users to curate their profiles will likely enhance their overall experience on the platform.

In the past, many users resorted to creating “throwaway” accounts when they wanted to discuss more personal topics. However, as Reddit continues to evolve into a more ad-focused tech company, especially post-IPO, it is in the company’s interest to keep user data, such as engagement and interests, associated with single user profiles for more effective ad targeting.

The introduction of this feature could also encourage more active participation on the site. Knowing that their activity can be somewhat obscured from public view may make users more comfortable engaging with topics they previously avoided due to privacy concerns.

For instance, users might now feel more inclined to ask questions or share thoughts on sensitive subjects, such as relationship advice or health issues, without worrying about these interactions being publicly visible on their profiles.

Limitations and Considerations

Reddit notes that the option to hide or display posts and comments is available on a per-community basis and not at the individual post or comment level. While this simplifies the settings management, it also means users cannot pick and choose which specific comments and posts are visible.

It’s essential for users to understand that the curation option does not equate to true privacy. Users’ usernames will still be visible next to their posts and comments within the communities. Additionally, moderators will retain access to a user’s public post and comment history for 28 days, regardless of the user’s content visibility settings, facilitating their role in managing community standards.

Moderators’ access to this information is crucial for reviewing user activity, especially when users post, comment, or send “modmail,” such as join requests or requests to join restricted communities.

Furthermore, profile owners will have temporary access to a user’s full post and comment history if another user comments directly on their profile post, highlighting the nuances of privacy settings on the platform.

Additional Updates

Alongside the introduction of the content curation feature, Reddit has also launched updated personal activity summaries. These summaries provide users with an overview of their activity on the platform, including their Karma count, total contributions, account age, and active communities, with the latter being influenced by their Content and activity settings.