Reddit FAQ
Answers to Reddit questions about NSFW age gates, privacy, and account security.
Access & compliance
- Why can't I load NSFW subreddits in the UK anymore?
- Reddit now enforces the UK Online Safety Act: visitors on a UK IP must pass a third-party age check before viewing 18+ communities. Until you complete the prompt or browse from a permitted region, NSFW posts stay hidden.
- Which provider handles Reddit's ID check?
- Reddit works with partners such as Persona. You upload a government ID and a live selfie; Persona verifies age within minutes, returns a pass/fail token, then purges the raw images within seven days.
- Can I skip the prompt with a VPN?
- Yes, connecting through Ireland, the Netherlands, or any region without mandatory age gates restores the legacy 18+ toggle. Remember the law still applies to you locally, so weigh compliance risks before bypassing.
Account & privacy
- Does Reddit keep my ID after verification?
- Reddit stores only the pass/fail result and your birthdate. Use Settings - Account - Data Controls to request deletion once regional retention periods end.
- How do I stop NSFW history sticking to my main?
- Use alternate accounts, enable anonymous browsing on mobile, and clear 'Recent communities' under Settings - History. Pair that with a VPN or Tor bridge if your ISP logs destinations.
- What's the safest way to tip or buy coins?
- Use Privacy.com or virtual cards tied to your Reddit alias. Coins and Contributor Program payouts sit under Settings - Wallet, which requires two-factor authentication.
Community management
- How have mod tools changed?
- Mod Console 4.0 adds live Automod previews, queue analytics, and AI-assisted toxicity labels. Rollouts are phased-enable beta features under Community Settings - Moderation.
- Can I still run third-party apps after the API pricing change?
- Apps that show ads or pass Reddit's Contributor API compliance may operate, but expect fewer free clients. Review each app's permissions and revoke unused tokens at Preferences - Apps.
- Why did my subreddit disappear from search?
- New policy limits default search exposure for unmoderated NSFW communities and those lacking verified age gates. Submit a Safe-Search Appeal once you add explicit tagging and Automod age filters.
Quick compliance checklist
- Keep a secure copy of your Persona receipt in case Reddit asks for proof.
- Update your Reddit age and country in Account Settings after you move or switch VPN regions.
- Enable 2FA and add backup codes; age-verified accounts attract takeover attempts.
- Bookmark the Reddit access guide for device-specific unblock tactics.
Privacy hygiene
Disable personalized ads under Privacy & Security - Advertising, rotate throwaway handles for highly sensitive subs, and export your data quarterly to audit what Reddit keeps.
Still need help?
- Check Reddit Help - Community Guidelines for the latest NSFW enforcement timeline.
- Compare VPN setup steps in our Reddit access guide.
- Creators hosting AMAs should review the Reddit full review for monetisation and analytics updates.