Two years after its launch, Bluesky has announced significant updates to its Community Guidelines, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Copyright Policy. The changes aim to improve clarity, enhance user safety, and ensure compliance with evolving international regulations such as the UK Online Safety Act (OSA), EU Digital Services Act (DSA), and GDPR.
Community Guidelines – Open for Feedback
Bluesky is inviting community input on its updated Community Guidelines until August 28th. The new draft is structured around four principles: Safety First, Respect Others, Be Authentic, and Follow the Rules. Key changes include:
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Clearer Harm Definitions: Expanded examples to match global safety laws.
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Progressive Enforcement: More transparency in moderation and enforcement.
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Appeals Process: New procedures for both informal and judicial redress in the EEA.
The updated guidelines will take effect October 15th.
Terms of Service – More User Control
The revised Terms of Service, effective September 15th, introduce:
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Eligibility & Age Assurance: Compliance with COPPA, OSA, and DSA.
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Moderation Transparency: Clear handling of illegal content.
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Expanded Appeals: Formal process for complaints.
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Dispute Resolution Options: Users can choose arbitration or court, with a focus on resolving disputes informally first.
Privacy Policy – Stronger User Rights
Bluesky’s updated Privacy Policy provides:
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Greater Transparency: Clearer explanation of data rights under GDPR and global laws.
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Data Transfer Safeguards: Details for EU/UK users.
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Retention Rules: Specifics on data deletion limits due to decentralized architecture.
Copyright Policy – Streamlined & Transparent
Changes include a more efficient DMCA-compliant takedown process, measures against false reports, and improved transparency reporting in line with DSA requirements.
Users can review all updated documents via the Bluesky Support Page.
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