What does “Community Guidelines” mean?

Community guidelines are the official policies set by social media platforms to establish what is and isn’t allowed on their site. These guidelines aim to maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment by prohibiting harmful content such as hate speech, harassment, misinformation, nudity, or graphic violence.

Users who violate these rules may have their content removed, accounts restricted, or even permanently banned depending on the severity of the breach.

Example:
"His account was taken down for violating TikTok’s community guidelines."

What are ways to use "Community Guidelines" on social media?

Social platforms regularly update their community guidelines to reflect changing standards and user safety needs. As a creator or business, it's important to stay informed and compliant with these rules to avoid penalties or content takedowns. When reporting inappropriate content or appealing a decision, these guidelines serve as the reference point.

Pro Tip

Familiarize yourself with each platform’s guidelines — what’s allowed on Instagram may not fly on TikTok or YouTube.

Related Terms

Terms of Service, Content Moderation, Platform Policy, Shadowban