Reddit shadowbanning is a frustrating and often misunderstood issue that affects many users. Unlike a regular ban, a shadowban allows a user to continue posting and commenting, but their content remains invisible to everyone except themselves and subreddit moderators.
Reddit Shadowban Checking Tool
What Is a Reddit Shadowban?
A Reddit shadowban is a stealth ban where your posts and comments become invisible to other users, even though they appear normal to you.
Signs You May Be Shadowbanned:
- You post without receiving upvotes, downvotes, or comments.
- Your profile link returns a 404 (Not Found) error when viewed by others.
- Your posts do not appear in subreddit feeds.
- AutoModerator removes your posts immediately without notifying you.
Shadowban vs. Subreddit Ban
| Ban Type | What Happens? |
|---|---|
| Shadowban | Your posts appear normal to you but are invisible to everyone else. |
| Subreddit Ban | A specific subreddit bans you from posting or commenting, but your content is still visible in other subreddits. |
| Suspension | Reddit disables your account, either temporarily or permanently. |
If shadowbanned, your user profile is invisible to others. Only Reddit admins can remove a shadowban.
How to Check If You’re Shadowbanned
1. Use Our Shadowban Checking Tool
The easiest way to check your status is to use our Reddit Shadowban Checker above.
2. Use Incognito Mode
- Open an incognito/private browser window.
- Go to your Reddit profile:
https://www.reddit.com/user/12345/ - If your profile appears as “Not Found” or “Suspended”, you are likely shadowbanned.
3. Post in r/ShadowBan (No Longer Works)
In the past, users could post in r/ShadowBan, and the MarkdownShadowBot would reply with their shadowban status. However, this subreddit is now closed (as of March 2025).
Why Did My Reddit Account Get Shadowbanned?
Reddit never explicitly explains shadowbans, but here are common reasons why accounts get banned:
- Spamming – Posting the same links repeatedly.
- Self-Promotion – Overposting links to your blog, or website.
- Buying Votes – Using voting services or asking for upvotes.
- Harassment – Following users or trolling.
- Mass PMs – Sending too many private messages.
- Bot Behavior – Using scripts or bots without admin approval.
- Vote Manipulation – Downvoting users in retaliation.
- Inappropriate Content – Posting illegal or offensive material.
- Using VPNs for New Accounts – VPN-created accounts often get flagged.
Reddit uses automated filters that can mistakenly flag legitimate users. Even if you follow the rules, you may still get shadowbanned.
How to Avoid Getting Shadowbanned on Reddit
- Follow Reddit’s Content Guidelines – Avoid spam, harassment, and manipulation.
- Post Original Content – Share diverse, relevant posts instead of self-promotion.
- Use a Realistic Posting Pattern – Don’t post too frequently in a short period.
- Engage Naturally – Upvote, comment, and interact before posting too much.
- Avoid Using a VPN for New Accounts – Reddit detects and flags VPN-created accounts.
- Be Cautious with Automation – Bots and scripts can trigger bans.
If you need multiple Reddit accounts, it’s safer to buy verified Reddit accounts instead of creating them yourself.
How to Get Un-Shadowbanned on Reddit
Getting un-shadowbanned is difficult, but not impossible.
1. Contact Reddit Admins
- Message the admins at r/reddit.com or r/help.
- Alternatively, email [email protected] for support.
- Send only one message per week to avoid spam detection.
2. Prove Your Innocence
- If you did not break any rules, request a review.
- Attach screenshots or links to prove your case.
3. Be Polite and Persistent
- Keep your message short and respectful.
- Avoid accusing Reddit of unfair treatment—they rarely respond to aggressive messages.
Example Message to Reddit Admins
Subject: Request to Review Shadowban on My Account
Dear Reddit Admin,
I recently discovered that my Reddit account, [YourUsername], has been shadowbanned.
I have reviewed the guidelines and, to the best of my knowledge, I have not violated any rules.
I would appreciate a review of my account and clarification on what I might have done wrong.
If there has been an error, I am happy to make necessary changes to comply with Reddit's policies.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Many users have successfully removed shadowbans using polite and well-written appeals.
Conclusion
Shadowbanning on Reddit is a serious issue that can prevent you from fully participating in the community. However, by following the rules, checking your status, and appealing correctly, you may be able to reverse it.
- Avoid spam
- Follow subreddit rules
- Check your status regularly
- Appeal politely if needed
If you’re serious about growing on Reddit, consider using verified accounts for a smoother experience!
