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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Don't create or share defamatory or libelous content that could damage someone's reputation or falsely portray them in a harmful way.
Content that is unoriginal, plagiarized, or copied from another individual or organization.
Using a Stock Avatar to create, offer or sell any non-fungible tokens (NFTs), or incorporating any Stock Avatars therein.
"you will not contribute any Post or otherwise use Substack in a manner that: Is fraudulent or threatening, or in any way violates Substack's Content GuidelinesExcerpt from Substack's Terms of Use
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The clause states: “you will not contribute any Post or otherwise use Substack in a manner that: Is fraudulent or threatening, or in any way violates Substack's Content Guidelines”
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 237 platforms. See the full comparison.
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