Recent reports indicate that Facebook has started prohibiting posts related to Linux as of January 19, 2025. This news surfaced when users attempted to share Linux-related content on the platform but were unable to do so. For reasons unknown, Facebook’s internal policies have now labeled Linux-related content as “cybersecurity threats,” significantly impacting platforms like DistroWatch.
Yes, you heard it right! According to numerous users on Reddit, Facebook has internally classified Linux as malware and began removing posts mentioning it. Many users reported their accounts being locked or blocked when posting about Linux or sharing links to sites like DistroWatch.
In relation to this, users even reported that older comments referencing DistroWatch were deleted for violating Facebook’s Community Guidelines.
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Facebook’s ban on Linux content is ironic, given that much of its infrastructure relies on Linux, as highlighted by DistroWatch. The Linux community website noted that they’ve faced similar issues in the past, with the most recent experience occurring during Twitter’s transformation into X.
Unfortunately, neither Facebook nor Meta has issued any official statement regarding this matter. However, further checks reveal that some Linux-related groups still exist and remain accessible, although tutorials or any English-language Linux content might have been removed by Facebook.
Generally, Facebook should not block Linux-related content unless it violates the platform’s Community Guidelines. However, if Linux content includes links to pirated software, discussions about hacking, or other risky activities, Facebook’s moderation system may take it down. This isn’t due to Linux itself but rather the association with illegal or harmful activities.
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Via: Neowin
