Reddit posts and comments can rank on Google for years. Reddit is run by communities and moderators, so the route to removal depends on what the post contains.
Reddit is a collection of communities, each with its own moderators and rules. A post that breaks the rules of one subreddit may be acceptable in another, which makes the route to removal depend on where the post sits.
Understanding the layers helps you decide where to start.
- Report posts that break Reddit's rules such as harassment or sharing private information.
- Moderators of the subreddit can remove content.
- Google results can be handled separately.
What Reddit may remove
- Posting someone's personal information (doxxing)
- Harassment, threats or hate
- Non-consensual intimate media
- Impersonation
- Content that breaks the specific subreddit's rules
- Copyright infringement under a DMCA notice
Steps
- Save evidenceScreenshot the post, the username and the link.
- Report itUse Reddit's report option and select the closest rule.
- Message the moderatorsPolitely ask the subreddit moderators to remove it and explain why.
- Use Reddit's formsFor personal information or impersonation, use the dedicated reporting forms.
- Send a DMCA notice if you own the contentUse Reddit's copyright process.
- Ask Google to hide the resultIf the post stays, request search removal when it qualifies.
- Do not escalate publiclyArguing in the thread often draws more attention.
Three layers of rules
Reddit has site-wide rules, such as prohibitions on harassment and sharing private information. Each subreddit adds its own rules. Moderators enforce these, and Reddit's administrators step in for serious breaches. Start with the strongest ground, and be polite when speaking to moderators.
Writing to the moderators
Use the modmail feature, link to the post and explain which rule it breaks. Keep it short. If you are the subject of the post, say so and explain the harm. Avoid arguing in the thread itself, which can draw more attention.
Escalating to Reddit
- Use Reddit's report form for personal information, harassment or impersonation
- Submit a DMCA notice if the content infringes your copyright
- Ask Google to remove the result if the post contains personal data
- Keep records of all your reports
When the post is about someone you know
If a Reddit post is about a family member, friend or employee, they may prefer to make the request themselves, particularly if it concerns sensitive matters. Encourage them to save evidence and report the content. If they are a minor or in a vulnerable situation, help them with the process and consider involving trusted adults or support organisations.
Avoid replying in the thread on their behalf, which can bring more attention and complicate the report.
For harmful or defamatory posts, email us the link and we will advise on the best route.
Frequently asked questions
Can I delete a Reddit post I did not write?
No. Only the author, subreddit moderators or Reddit can remove it. You can report it to the moderators and to Reddit if it breaks the rules, for example because it shares personal information or harasses you. Be polite and clear in your reports.
Can I find who posted it?
Usually not without legal process. Reddit does not share user identities with the public. If the content is defamatory or harassing and you take legal action, a court may order disclosure. A lawyer can advise on whether that is realistic.
What if the subreddit ignores me?
Report to Reddit's admins using the relevant form, particularly if the post breaks site-wide rules such as sharing personal information or harassment. Keep your messages polite and factual, and include links and evidence. Persistence often helps.
Will deleting it remove it from Google?
The result should drop out after Google refreshes its index. If it still appears after a while, use Google's outdated content tool. If the post contains personal information, you may also be able to request removal through Google's personal information policy.
Is commenting a good idea?
Usually not. Replying in the thread can draw more attention to the post and may make the discussion worse. It is usually better to report it, message the moderators and, if appropriate, publish your own account elsewhere.
How long does it take?
Moderators may act within hours or days, depending on how active the community is. Reddit's own review can take longer. If nothing happens, follow up politely and escalate to Reddit's admins.
Need help with this?
Every situation is different. Email us the details in confidence and we will reply with an honest assessment of what can be done.
Contact us by email Reddit and Forum RemovalThis guide is general information, not legal advice. DMCA Reputation is not a law firm.
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