Reddit tightens control over public data with contract requirement
What's the story
In a bid to enhance user privacy, Reddit, the popular online platform, has introduced a new "Public Content Policy."
This policy aims to regulate how commercial entities and partners use the platform's data.
The newly announced policy is an extension of Reddit's existing privacy and content policies.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of Reddit's recent debut in the stock market.
Revenue strategy
Reddit's shift toward data licensing for revenue generation
Reddit's CEO, Steve Huffman, stated last year that it was unsustainable for the company to continue providing valuable data to some of the world's largest companies without any charges. This statement marked a shift toward data licensing.
The new Public Content Policy requires entities to have an agreement in order to access Reddit's data.
However, Reddit clarified that this is not a new restriction but a public disclosure of an existing internal policy.
Data misuse
Reddit's new policy targets misuse of public data
Reddit has expressed concerns about commercial entities either misusing authorized access or using unauthorized access to gather public data in bulk.
The company stated, "Worse, these entities perceive they have no limitation on their usage of that data, and they do so with no regard for user rights or privacy."
The new policy aims to address this issue by limiting access to large-scale Reddit public content to trusted partners who agree to comply with their policies.
User rights
Reddit's public content policy ensures user rights and privacy
The updated policy guarantees continued access for users, moderators, researchers, and other non-commercial actors.
However, those wishing to use Reddit's data for commercial purposes - including AI training - will now have to pay.
Advertisers are advised to use an ads API for campaign management and performance tracking.
The Public Content Policy is designed to deter unauthorized collection of Reddit content while upholding user rights.
Data protection
Reddit's policy prohibits misuse of user data for commercial purposes
Under the new policy, partners are obligated to respect users' choices to delete their content and are prohibited from using Reddit's content to identify individuals or their personal information, including for ad targeting.
The policy also bans partners from using Reddit content for spamming, harassment, background checks, facial recognition, government surveillance, or assisting law enforcement in these activities.
Furthermore, the policy restricts access to adult media and clarifies that Reddit will not sell users' personal information.
Research support
Reddit's commitment to non-commercial use and research
The policy guarantees that non-public content like private messages or non-public account information will never be licensed.
To support researchers using Reddit data for non-commercial purposes, the company has created a new subreddit, r/reddit4researchers.
In collaboration with OpenMined, Reddit aims to facilitate and enhance researchers' engagement with the platform.