Causes and Fixes for Reddit "You've Been Blocked by Network Security"

Seeing ‘You’ve been blocked by network security.” on Reddit? It is really frustrating. This block often occurs in various settings, such as workplaces, schools, or even at home. Understanding why these blocks happen and how to navigate around them is essential for anyone affected and will help you enjoy Reddit life better. This blog delves into the causes of network security blocks, offers solutions, and how to prevent it from happening again.

Quick Diagnosis & Fixes

If you already have some technical knowledge, check the quick diagnosis table below. Need a detailed breakdown? Please continue reading for a step-by-step breakdown.

What Does "You've Been Blocked by Network Security" Mean?

"You've been blocked by network security." means Reddit (or your network administrator) blocks access due to security concerns. It can happen for various reasons, for example, Reddit detecting suspicious activity from your IP address. And we detailed show the possible causes in the nest part.

Causes of Reddit Blocked by Network Security

If you encounter this error, Reddit has likely restricted your access due to security concerns. Below are the most common causes, ranked from most to least likely.

1. IP Address Blocking(Most Common Cause)

Suspicious Activity: If your IP address is associated with suspicious behavior, such as spamming or abusive actions, Reddit's security systems may block it.

VPN or Proxy Use: Using a VPN or proxy can sometimes lead to blocks if the IP address has been previously flagged for malicious activity.

2. Browser or Extension Conflicts

Cached Data: Corrupted cache or cookies can sometimes trigger security measures. 

Browser Extensions: Certain extensions (like ad blockers or security plugins) may interfere with site access and trigger blocks.

3. Security Software Conflicts

Firewall Settings: Personal or network firewalls can block access to Reddit if they mistakenly identify it as a threat.

Antivirus Programs: Some antivirus software may flag Reddit as suspicious, leading to a block.

4. Workplace or School Network Restrictions

Many institutions block Reddit for security or productivity reasons. Firewalls detect and restrict access to social media and forums.

5. ISP or Government Censorship

Some countries (e.g., China, UAE) block Reddit due to content regulations. ISPs may enforce these restrictions at a national level.

6. Account Issues

If your Reddit account has been banned due to violating community guidelines, you may receive this message when trying to log in.

Step-by-Step Fix Reddit“You've Been Blocked by Network Security.”

1. Check If Your IP Address Is Blocked by Reddit (Most Common Cause)

Diagnosis:

• Try accessing Reddit from another device on the same network.
• Restart your router to see if you get a new IP address.
• Use a different internet connection (e.g., mobile data).

If Reddit works on another network → Your IP is blocked.

Fix:

• Restart your router (for dynamic IPs).
• Use a high quality residential proxy or VPN to get a new IP.
• If your IP is static, contact your ISP for a new one.

2. Check If Your VPN or Proxy Is Causing the Block

Diagnosis:

• Disable your VPN or proxy and try accessing Reddit again.

If Reddit works after turning off your VPN → Your VPN/proxy IP is blacklisted.

Fix:

• Switch to a different VPN server.
• Use a residential proxy instead of a shared VPN.
• Avoid free VPNs—they are often blacklisted.

3. Check If Your Browser or Extensions Are Blocking Reddit

Diagnosis:

• Open Reddit in Incognito Mode (Private Browsing).
• Disable all browser extensions (especially ad blockers).

If Reddit works in Incognito Mode → A browser extension is causing the issue.

Fix:

• Clear your browser cache and cookies.
• Disable extensions one by one to find the culprit.
• Whitelist Reddit in ad blockers/privacy tools.

4. Check If Firewall or Antivirus Software Is Blocking Reddit

Diagnosis:

• Temporarily disable your firewall/antivirus and try accessing Reddit again.

If Reddit works after disabling security software → Your firewall/antivirus is blocking it.

Fix:

• Add Reddit to your firewall/antivirus whitelist.
• Adjust security settings to allow Reddit traffic.

5. Check If Your Workplace or School Network Is Blocking Reddit

Diagnosis:

• Try accessing another restricted site (e.g., Facebook, Twitter).
• Connect to a different Wi-Fi network (e.g., home, public Wi-Fi).

If other sites are also blocked → Your workplace/school is restricting access.

Fix:

• Use a residential proxy to bypass restrictions.
• Contact IT support (if allowed) for access permissions.

6. Check If Your ISP or Government Is Blocking Reddit

Diagnosis:

• Try accessing Reddit using a different ISP (e.g., mobile hotspot).
• Change your DNS settings to Google DNS (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4).
• Use a VPN to see if Reddit becomes accessible.

If Reddit works with a VPN but not without → Your ISP is blocking it.

Fix:

• Use a VPN or residential proxy to bypass ISP restrictions.
• Change DNS settings to Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1).

7. Check If Your Reddit Account Has Been Banned

Diagnosis:

• Try logging into your Reddit account from another device/network.
• Attempt to access Reddit while logged out.

If Reddit works when logged out but not when logged in → Your account may be banned.

Fix:

• Check your email for ban notifications from Reddit moderators/admins.
• Appeal the ban through Reddit Support.

How to Prevent “You’ve Been Blocked by Network Security” on Reddit

Use a High-Quality Residential Proxy: Avoid free VPNs/proxies—they’re often blacklisted. Use a trusted residential proxy service like GOProxy.

Follow Reddit’s Rules: Avoid spam, excessive upvoting/downvoting, and automation tools that trigger bans.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Shared networks often have flagged IPs—use mobile data or a VPN instead.

Keep Your Browser Clean: Regularly clear cache/cookies and disable conflicting extensions.

Secure Your Account & Network: Enable 2FA, use strong passwords, and prevent unauthorized activity on your network.

Final Thoughts

Encountering the error "You've been blocked by network security" is frustrating, but understanding the underlying causes and solutions can help you navigate these challenges effectively. Proxies, in particular, offer a versatile solution for bypassing restrictions and maintaining online anonymity. By following the best practices outlined in this blog, you can enjoy a safer and more accessible internet experience on Reddit.

For better results, use a high-quality residential proxy like GOProxy to ensure undetectable and secure browsing!