Musk effect: Reddit suspends subreddit for doxing DOGE employees
What's the story
Reddit has temporarily suspended the r/WhitePeopleTwitter subreddit after tech billionaire Elon Musk alleged that users on the platform had broken the law.
The social media giant defended its move by saying that "the prevalence of violent content" was the reason behind the 72-hour ban.
The controversy started after a user 'Reddit lies' posted screenshots of posts from r/WhitePeopleTwitter on X, doxing Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees.
Alleged violation
What was the issue?
The images revealed conversations where users were discussing the identities of Musk's DOGE employees and talked about killing them. Musk responded to the revelations by saying, "They have broken the law."
Platform rules
Reddit's message to users post subreddit suspension
Following Musk's claim, Reddit quickly slapped a temporary ban on r/WhitePeopleTwitter.
A message on its page read, "This subreddit has been temporarily banned due to the prevalence of violent content. Inciting and glorifying violence or doxing is against Reddit's platform-wide rules."
The company also promised it will reopen in 72 hours and offer support to moderators during this time.
Past bans
Reddit's history of banning subreddits
Notably, this isn't the first time Reddit has taken such action. The platform also recently banned another subreddit, r/IsElonDeadYet, for similar violations of posting violent content. These incidents underscore Reddit's commitment to enforcing its platform-wide rules and keeping the environment safe for users.
Team details
DOGE team and their role
Musk has been working with a group of young engineers at DOGE, who have little experience of handling bureaucracy.
Although DOGE isn't a government department, it was given a wide mandate by the Donald Trump administration to reduce US government spending and streamline bureaucracy.
Several of Musk's allies have also secured positions within federal agencies, furthering his influence over the US government.