What is AutoModerator?
AutoModerator is Reddit's built-in moderation system that lets community moderators set up rule-based filtering and spam removal. You configure it through a wiki page in your subreddit, and it then enforces your custom rules automatically across every post and comment.
Key Features
- Rule-based filtering: Automatically remove, approve, or flag content by keyword, domain, or attribute.
- Spam removal: Catch and remove spam without manual review.
- Flair enforcement: Require or auto-assign post flair.
- Regex rules: Build precise filters with regular expressions.
Is AutoModerator Worth It?
If you moderate a subreddit, AutoModerator is essential and free: it is built into Reddit and can automatically remove spam, filter by keyword or domain, enforce flair, and more, which is why nearly every large subreddit relies on it. The only real downside is the learning curve, rules are written in YAML with regex and there is no visual editor, so expect some trial and error. There is no real substitute for rule-based automation on Reddit, so the question is less whether to use it than how deep to go.
Pros
- Built into Reddit
- Highly configurable rules
- Free
- Reliable, used by major subreddits
Cons
- Complex YAML and regex config
- No graphical editor
- Steep learning curve
Use Cases
- Automated content filtering
- Spam removal
- Post flair enforcement
- Rule-based moderation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AutoModerator free?
Yes, it is built into Reddit for all subreddit moderators.
Do I need coding knowledge?
A basic understanding of YAML syntax (and some regex) helps.
How do I set up rules?
Edit the "automoderator" wiki page in your subreddit and write rules in YAML; changes take effect once saved.