Bluesky says it’s getting more aggressive about moderation and enforcement
Bluesky says it’s getting more aggressive about moderation and enforcement, signaling a major shift in how the platform handles toxic content. The social app, often seen as a rising alternative to X, is rolling out stricter rules designed to protect healthy dialogue and limit harmful behavior.
Image Credits:Jaque Silva/NurPhoto/ Getty Images
A New Era of Enforcement
In a recent blog post, Bluesky revealed that it will be stepping up its efforts to enforce community guidelines. The company stated it will escalate account restrictions faster, with fewer warnings before deactivating accounts that repeatedly break the rules.
This marks a change from the platform’s earlier approach, which leaned heavily on warnings and community-driven moderation. Now, Bluesky is positioning itself as a platform that prioritizes safety and constructive conversations.
Community Feedback Shapes Policy
The update follows months of user input. In August, Bluesky invited feedback on draft guidelines, receiving over 14,000 responses. Many community members raised concerns about balancing moderation with creative expression and the voices of marginalized groups.
Bluesky acknowledged these concerns but emphasized that stricter enforcement is necessary to combat harassment, abuse, and toxic content. The company says the changes are a return to its “experimental roots” — testing new ways to cultivate better dialogue online.
Product Changes for Transparency
Alongside tougher enforcement, Bluesky is rolling out product updates that make guidelines clearer. Users may now see more in-app notices when content risks violating policies. This transparency aims to help people self-correct before posting potentially harmful material.
Controversial Moderation Decisions
Like most social platforms, Bluesky faces challenges around who gets banned and why. Activists have criticized past suspensions, including accounts fundraising for Palestinians in Gaza.
More recently, Bluesky suspended horror writer Gretchen Felker-Martin for comments about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk — a move that sparked backlash. High-profile voices, including author Roxane Gay, described the decision as “unacceptable” and “ridiculous.”
Bluesky’s tougher stance highlights the ongoing struggle for social platforms: how to protect free expression while tackling harmful behavior. By taking a firmer line, Bluesky hopes to differentiate itself from platforms criticized for either too much or too little moderation.
With these changes, the company is betting that users will embrace a community built on healthier conversations — even if that means fewer second chances for rule-breakers.
Post a Comment