Two years after its launch, social network Bluesky is revising its Community Guidelines and other policies while seeking user feedback on some of the changes. The startup, which competes with platforms like X, Threads, and Mastodon, states that the updated policies aim to provide clearer guidelines and more detailed procedures for user safety and appeals. Many of these changes are driven by new global regulations, including the UK Online Safety Act, the EU Digital Services Act, and the US TAKE IT DOWN Act.
Some updates reflect Bluesky’s effort to shape its community and encourage more respectful behavior among users. This follows complaints and media reports suggesting the platform struggles with self-seriousness, excessive bad-news sharing, and a lack of humor and diversity of thought.
To comply with regulations, Bluesky’s Terms of Service now include requirements for age assurance in regions like the UK, where users must verify their age through methods such as facial scans, ID uploads, or payment card entries to access the platform. The complaints and appeals process has also been expanded with more detailed steps.
A notable addition is an informal dispute resolution process, where Bluesky offers to discuss issues with users over the phone before formal proceedings. The company believes most disputes can be resolved this way, setting it apart from larger platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where users often face bans without explanation or recourse.
Bluesky also allows certain claims of harm to be resolved in court rather than through arbitration, a departure from the typical tech industry preference for mediation.
Users are invited to provide feedback on proposed changes to the Community Guidelines, which will take effect on October 15, 2025. The revised guidelines focus on four principles: Safety First, Respect Others, Be Authentic, and Follow the Rules. These principles guide moderation decisions, including content removal, account suspensions, and, in some cases, reporting to law enforcement.
The rules prohibit common violations such as promoting violence, illegal content, sexualizing minors, doxxing, and spam. Exceptions are made for journalism, parody, and satire, allowing factual reporting on topics like criminal activity, mental health, and online safety.
However, challenges may arise in defining terms like “threat,” “harm,” or “abuse.” The policy emphasizes respect by banning hate speech, harassment, and bullying, including exploitative deepfakes and content inciting discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity, or other protected traits.
Bluesky has faced criticism in the past for inconsistent moderation, including strained relationships with the Black and trans communities. More recently, backlash has centered on perceptions of the platform becoming overly left-leaning, with users complaining about hostile interactions and a lack of humor.
Originally, Bluesky aimed to empower users with tools like block lists and opt-in moderation services to shape their own communities. However, many users still expect the platform itself to handle moderation, leading to frustration when decisions are disputed.
Bluesky’s Privacy Policy and Copyright Policy have also been updated to align with global laws on data rights, transparency, and takedown procedures. These changes take effect on September 15, 2025, without a feedback period.