Definition
Shadow banning is when a platform intentionally restricts the visibility of your content to your audience or the public, without notifying you. It's not an outright ban, but a quiet suppression that makes your posts harder to find, often leading to a drop in engagement and reach. This can happen for various reasons, from perceived violations of community guidelines to algorithmic flags. You won't get a direct warning; you'll just notice your performance tanking. For creators, this matters because it directly impacts your ability to reach your audience and grow, making it harder to monetize and build your brand.