Reddit announced on Tuesday an update introducing enhanced privacy controls designed to give users more control over how their content appears on their user profiles. The new feature, called “Content and Activity,” enables Redditors to selectively hide or display posts and comments visible on their profiles, providing greater flexibility regarding their activity visibility.
While previously all posts and comments made by a user were shown publicly by default, the newly introduced settings allow users to keep some or all of this content private. Specifically, users can either opt to hide all posts and comments or selectively display those from particular subreddits they choose. This new functionality is part of a broader “Curate your profile” section where users can manage their content visibility settings. The update also includes toggles for NSFW content and follower counts, offering further customization opportunities.
According to Reddit, these changes aim to improve users’ privacy and offer peace of mind, especially for those wishing to discuss sensitive topics. Historically, users often created separate “throwaway” accounts to protect their privacy when discussing personal or delicate matters, such as relationship advice or health-related concerns. By providing profiles with more control over visibility, Reddit is hoping to encourage more active user engagement while preserving user identity data tied to a single account, aligning with its strategy to leverage user interests and activity for targeted advertising.
However, Reddit clarified that the new settings do not establish absolute user privacy. Posts and comments will still be visible within their original communities, including associated usernames. Additionally, moderators will retain limited access to user activity histories for a 28-day period, regardless of the profile’s privacy settings. This policy helps moderators review user histories as needed during moderation activities, such as assessing new posting permissions or community access requests.
Furthermore, Reddit added improvements to user activity summaries displayed on individual profiles. These summaries now incorporate user karma scores, total content contributions, account age, and listed active communities—all tailored according to the profile owner’s specific “Content and Activity” visibility preferences.
