This analysis describes what GitHub's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
The prohibition directly binds users to compliance with a broad, multi-jurisdictional set of legal regimes as a condition of using GitHub.
GitHub's updated Terms of Service now include an explicit section governing AI features, including Copilot. The new section establishes specific contractual terms for how user data may be collected, used, and retained for developing and improving AI and machine learning models, and identifies what controls are available to users. The practical effect is that AI-related data practices are now consolidated under dedicated contractual language rather than dispersed across general service terms.
View change record →GitHub's Terms of Service update on April 19, 2026 involved substantial revisions across 54 sentences, with 40 sentences removed and 4 added. The extent of change suggests modifications to core service provisions; however, without access to the specific language that was modified, removed, or added, the precise operational implications for users cannot be determined. Users should review the updated Terms directly to understand how the changes affect their usage rights, account obligations, or dispute resolution procedures.
View change record →Users are prohibited from using GitHub in any manner that would violate export control or sanctions laws in the U.S. or any other applicable jurisdiction.
How other platforms handle this
goods licensed or sold on the Walmart Sites...are subject to the customs and export control laws and regulations of the United States of America...and you agree to comply with all applicable laws.
comply with Applicable Laws administered by the U.S. Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control or other governmental entity imposing export controls and trade sanctions...
you will not access or use our Services in any manner that would cause us or you to violate any U.S. or international embargoes, economic sanctions, or export controls laws or regulations.
"You may not use GitHub in violation of export control or sanctions laws of the United States or any other applicable jurisdiction.Excerpt from GitHub's Terms of Service
Get the research letter
Companies change their terms quietly. We read every version and catch what actually changed. One email a week on the changes that matter and what they mean.
The prohibition directly binds users to compliance with a broad, multi-jurisdictional set of legal regimes as a condition of using GitHub.
Users are prohibited from using GitHub in any manner that would violate export control or sanctions laws in the U.S. or any other applicable jurisdiction.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 182 platforms. See the full comparison.
No. ConductAtlas is an independent monitoring service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by GitHub.