Automated Bans Hit Trans Users on Tumblr

On Wednesday, Tumblr experienced a significant disruption when an automated system incorrectly banned numerous user accounts. Many of these accounts were reportedly run by trans women, who received little to no specific reason for their termination. Automattic, Tumblr's parent company, confirmed the incident, stating that the automated system had erroneously flagged several users, including members of the trans community.

The company has since disabled the faulty system and reversed the majority of the incorrect bans. A spokesperson issued a sincere apology to all affected users, assuring them that the system is being improved to prevent future errors. This incident follows a recent reversal of a controversial reblogging system change, though company officials stated the bans were unrelated to user opposition to that change.

This automated ban wave echoes past moderation issues on Tumblr. In 2022, the platform settled with New York City's Commission on Human Rights over discrimination allegations stemming from a 2018 adult content ban that disproportionately affected LGBTQ+ content. The settlement mandated a review of moderation algorithms and improvements to the user appeals process to address bias. In 2023, Automattic scaled back plans for Tumblr, reassigning many non-essential staff to other divisions.