A Creator’s Guide to Shadowbanning

What it really means when your reach suddenly drops—and what you can (and can’t) do about it

This post originally appeared in the Uncensored Artists newsletter.

“Shadowbanning” is one of those terms that gets thrown around a lot, especially in adult-content spaces, but it’s often misunderstood. It can feel like a catch-all explanation for when your social media reach tanks or your posts stop getting likes. But to tackle the issue effectively, we need to separate the myth from the reality.

What is shadowbanning?

Shadowbanning is when a platform limits the visibility of your content without notifying you directly. Your account isn't banned in the traditional sense — you can still post, comment, and interact — but fewer people see your content, especially new followers or those outside your immediate circle. In most cases, it’s a form of content suppression triggered by algorithmic moderation, keyword filters, or manual reports.

Are you really shadowbanned?

Before assuming the worst, it’s important to consider other factors that affect engagement:

• Algorithm changes

• Seasonal fluctuations (summer is slow for everyone)

• Burnout in your audience

• Boring content (harsh but true)

To investigate a shadow ban, try these steps:

• Search test: Log out or use an incognito window. Search your username or hashtags you’ve used. If you’re not showing up, that’s a red flag.

• Check analytics: A sudden drop in reach (not just likes) may suggest content suppression.

• Compare platforms: If you’re suddenly struggling on one site but not others, you may be dealing with moderation quirks specific to that platform.

Why NSFW creators are especially vulnerable

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube often flag content that includes nudity, “suggestive” poses, or even certain words (like “OnlyFans,” “kink,” or “Patreon”). You don’t need to post explicit content to be caught in the dragnet — being tangentially associated with adult spaces can be enough.

Also worth noting: platforms aren’t interested in transparency, especially when adult content is involved. Their moderation tools often err on the side of restriction to avoid backlash from advertisers or scrutiny from payment processors.

What can you do about it?

Unfortunately, there's no silver bullet — but there are strategies that help:

• Diversify your platforms. Don’t rely on one site to build or reach your audience. Use email newsletters, paid platforms (like Patreon), and NSFW-friendly alternatives like Bluesky, Cohost, or Newgrounds.

• Play the game (sometimes). Use “soft” versions of risky words (e.g. “spicy site” instead of “OnlyFans”) or break them up with symbols. But don’t let censorship shape your entire brand.

• Build your own infrastructure. A personal website with its own mailing list is still the most powerful tool you can own. No algorithm can throttle what you send directly to your fans.

• Speak up. Sometimes shadowbanning isn’t just about the algorithm — it’s a systemic bias. When platforms silence adult creators, especially queer and marginalized artists, it’s worth raising awareness, pushing for transparency, and organizing with others.

Shadowbanning is real, but it’s also a murky, inconsistent process that’s often invisible. Instead of obsessing over algorithms, focus on what you can control: diversify, decentralize, and own your connection to your audience.