How do I automate the process of blocking Reddit users?

Automating the block process on Reddit is limited by what the platform officially exposes. You can’t directly block users through a public API, but you can automate related safety measures in two practical ways: (1) use Reddit’s AutoModerator in your own subreddits to suppress content from specific users, and (2) consider browser automation as a last-resort, cautionary approach if you must block at scale across multiple contexts. Rely on supported features first to stay compliant with Reddit’s terms of service.

Practical automation options for blocking behavior

• AutoModerator in your own subreddit to hide or remove content from specific users.
• Keyword and author-based filters to reduce exposure to unwanted posts across your subreddits.
• Manual blocking where necessary for individual users via the user profile, as the primary control in the app.
• Browser automation (advanced and risky) to simulate blocking actions, used only with caution and clear policy compliance.

How to use AutoModerator to suppress content from specific users

• Identify users you want to block from your subreddit.
• Create rules in the AutoModerator config to act on posts and comments from those users.
• Choose actions such as remove, lock, or mark as spam, depending on your needs and subreddit settings.
• Test rules in a staging or low-traffic area of your subreddit to avoid unintended removals.

Example AutoModerator rules (conceptual)

1. Rule: If author is "username1" or "username2" then remove.
2. Rule: If author is in a list of banned_users then prune comments.
3. Rule: If post type is text or link and author matches, then set flair to "Blocked" or remove.

How to block users manually in Reddit apps

Desktop or web

• Open the user’s profile.
• Click More > Block user or the equivalent option.
• Confirm the action.

Mobile apps

• Navigate to the user’s profile.
• Tap the three-dot menu and select Block user.
• Confirm when prompted.

Browser automation: advanced, limited, and risky

• Use tools like browser automation to script blocking across multiple accounts, if you manage many profiles.
• Pros: can scale beyond manual blocking in one place.
• Cons: increases risk of account bans, brittle scripts, and potential policy violations.
• Recommendation: avoid relying on automation for blocking unless you fully understand Reddit’s terms and have explicit permission for the workflow.

Best practices and pitfalls to avoid

• Pitfall: Over-blocking by accident. Always test AutoModerator rules on a small scale first.
• Pitfall: Outdated rules. Regularly review the list of tracked users as accounts may be renamed.
• Pitfall: Inconsistent handling across devices. Ensure your blocking actions align between desktop and mobile.
• Best practice: Use AutoModerator to centralize moderation behavior in your own subreddits.
• Best practice: Keep a separate log of actions for accountability and rollback if needed.

Quick comparison of alternatives

• Manual blocking — simplest, most compliant, but not scalable across many accounts.
• AutoModerator-based suppression — scalable within your subreddits, actionable without user-level blocking.
• Browser automation — potentially powerful but risky and brittle; use only if you understand the policy implications.

SEE ALSO:

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• How do i track the social referrals from reddit
• How do i automate the process of hiding read reddit posts
• What are the best tools for managing reddit mod mail