This analysis describes what Substack'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 updated terms establish new content moderation procedures, including use of automated detection tools (hash-matching for CSAM, keyword filtering, direct message scanning) followed by human review before enforcement action, except where immediate action is necessary to prevent serious harm. Substack will notify users when content is removed or accounts are suspended for policy or safety reasons, unless notification would compromise an investigation or risk harm. Users may appeal content removal or account restrictions by contacting tos@substackinc.com, with Substack committing to respond within 3 business days. Beginning December 1, 2026, local VAT, GST, sales, or use tax will be added to Paid Subscription purchase prices, collected by Substack and remitted to applicable taxing authorities where its service provider is able to do so. You can report content violations using the report tool on each post or profile page, and appeal content moderation decisions by contacting the support email address.
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Other than expressly stated herein, there are no implied licenses granted under these Terms.
Nothing in this Agreement assigns or transfers ownership of any IP Rights to the other party, or contemplates a joint development of intellectual property.
You also acknowledge that you have neither obtained nor will obtain any ownership or other right, title, or interest in or to the Services, Software, or Documentation or any Proprietary Rights relating thereto.
"These Terms don't grant you any right, title or interest in Substack, or our trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property.Excerpt from Substack's Terms of Use
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The clause states: “These Terms don't grant you any right, title or interest in Substack, or our trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property.”
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 249 platforms. See the full comparison.
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