Reddit is a social news website and forum where all content is circulated such that the members of the community decide its quality by voting. Its safety is a matter of concern since it is designed for adult users and has several underlying issues with how it is operated. Let’s learn about ‘Is Reddit Safe?’.
Is Reddit Safe?
Safety on Reddit is highly dependent on the type of user, which is the case of all social media platforms. Even though it is not for kids, a large chunk of its userbase consists of teenagers and young adults. To post anything on the platform, one needs to make an account. An account is not needed to view posts and subreddits which brings the question of safety in mind. Due to its anonymous nature, it might not be very safe for teenagers and young adults with little online awareness to use the platform. It can be dangerous for someone who knows how to use it dangerously. Online predators and cyberbullies can use the platform for their ill purposes without any real repercussions which ultimately motivates them even further.
Another crucial aspect is inappropriate content, more popularly called NSFW content (Not Safe for Work). Such content is regulated on Reddit such that minors cannot view it and are blocked automatically. However, it is still a matter of concern as pornography is promoted openly on the platform and the CEO even defended the same. With no real age verification checks in place, the platform automatically becomes something that kids and their parents need to be wary of.
Predators and Cyberbullies – Without much online awareness, falling prey to dangerous people online becomes a real risk. Reddit insists that its users keep real identities off the platform to reduce this risk but this also works counteractively. Predators and cyberbullies easily hide their identities online and thus take harsh actions without any real fear. Such a risk can translate into real life for kids if they do not know how to keep their identities private.
Inappropriate Content –
Reddit’s CEO defended the circulation of inappropriate content on the platform and said that they will continue hosting it. According to him, Reddit provides a valuable forum to talk about sex as it is otherwise a topic not served well online. The platform has policies on involuntary pornography and sexualization of minors but they can be easily exploited as it is just as easy to make new accounts for people once they’re banned. Moreover, officially, children below 13 are not allowed to make an account or use Reddit’s services but without any age verification processes in check, it is rather a formality.
Misinformation and Data Leaks –
A lesser important but still valid argument is that misinformation on the platform creates confusion. With no regulation on general topics and day-to-day issues, people’s opinions and thoughts may differ from the truth creating confusion among the youth.
Data leaks are also a dangerous aspect of the platform. Reddit has gone through this issue in the past and described it as a security incident. Hackers have previously broken into their databases and accessed user emails and hashed passwords. Being such a huge platform, attacks of this manner can get out of hand very quickly.
Conclusion –
As a conclusion, it is evident that Reddit is not safe for kids and young adults with less online intelligence and awareness. As for experienced adults, it is safe if used wisely. Using VPNs, not revealing identities, being wary of suspicious links and subreddits are a few ways to make Reddit browsing a safe and sound experience. Ultimately, the safety of an individual on any social platform is in their own hands and that applies to Reddit too.
Frequently Asked Questions –
- What is the age requirement to use Reddit?
Children under the age of 13 are not allowed to create an account or otherwise use the services. Additionally, some content can only be viewed by adult users.
- What are some methods to use Reddit safely?
Some simple methods to be safe on Reddit are –
- Create strong and unique passwords.
- Do not share personal details and identities online.
- Report any kinds of harassment to the authorities.
- Stay away from suspicious links which might contain malware.
- Use a VPN (Virtually Private Network) to hide your online address.
- Why does Reddit allow circulation of inappropriate content?
When asked about policy changes banning pornography on the platform, the CEO stated that Reddit will not ban sexually explicit content. The reasoning given was that they believe they can provide a medium to make such content “well-served” since it usually isn’t so online or offline. With strict rules on involuntary pornography and sexualization of minors, Reddit feels that it’s safe enough to keep such content up and running with NSFW filters and warnings.
