Reddit is introducing a new verification framework that pairs mandatory age checks in some jurisdictions with broader human-authentication tools.
CEO Steve Huffman framed the change bluntly in a platform post: “Reddit is for people,” with the company’s near-term priority focused on distinguishing humans from automated accounts.
The rollout has three main parts. First, Reddit will require age verification where local law demands it. Second, it is introducing optional verified-profile features. Third, it is building a system that can challenge accounts showing suspicious or automated behavior and require proof that a human is behind them.
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Reddit says it already removes an average of 100,000 accounts per day tied to malicious automation and spam.
The platform will label approved automated accounts with [App], creating a visible marker for so-called good bots and allowing developers to register their applications for that status. Accounts using automation without disclosure, or exhibiting bot-like behavior, can instead face verification demands or restrictions.
Huffman said the company wants verification methods that confirm humanness without forcing Reddit itself to hold personal identity data. Options under review include passkeys and third-party services that can attest that an account belongs to a human without directly revealing the user’s identity to the platform. In countries with legal age-verification mandates, Reddit said some form of ID-based check may still be required, though the company wants to avoid directly seeing that information.
READ: Privacy Fight Exposes Who May Benefit From Age Verification Bills
The more controversial edge of the plan is biometric verification. Reporting on Huffman’s comments indicates Reddit is considering device-native tools such as Face ID or Touch ID as potentially lightweight ways to prove a person is present.
Reddit shares fell about 10% on Thursday, coinciding with disclosure that the company’s chief technology officer sold roughly $1.34 million worth of stock.
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