How to Setup Group Privacy in BuddyBoss Platform

Introduction

BuddyBoss allows you to control the visibility and accessibility of social groups through three privacy options:

• Public – Visible to everyone, including non-members.
• Private – Visible in group directories but content is only accessible to members.
• Hidden – Completely invisible in group directories and accessible only through invitation.

These settings provide flexibility in organizing community interactions, enhancing user privacy, and maintaining content control.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Access Group Privacy Settings

1. Navigate to BuddyBoss > Groups from your Dashboard.
2. Locate the group you want to edit and click the Edit button.

3. In the Settings section, find the Group Privacy option.

Option 1: Set Group Privacy to Public

Public Groups are open to all members and non-members.

1. In Group Privacy, select Public.

2. Click Save Changes to apply the setting.
3. Reload the Group Page to confirm the change.

Option 2: Set Group Privacy to Private

Private Groups are visible in group directories, but content is restricted to members only.

1. In Group Privacy, select Private.
2. Click Save Changes to confirm.

3. Reload the Group Page to check the update.

Option 3: Set Group Privacy to Hidden

Hidden Groups are completely invisible to non-members.

1. In Group Privacy, select Hidden.
2. Click Save Changes to apply the setting.

3. Reload the Group Page and confirm:

Step 2: Manage Group Privacy from the Frontend

BuddyBoss also allows you to change group privacy settings directly from the frontend.

1. Navigate to the group you want to edit.
2. Click on the three dots next to the Send Invites option.
3. From the dropdown, select Manage > Settings.

4. You will see the Privacy Options for the group:
   • Public
   • Private
   • Hidden
5. Select your preferred privacy option and click Save Changes.

Understanding Group Privacy Options

Here’s how each privacy option impacts group visibility and access:

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can’t I find the Hidden group in directories?
A: Hidden groups are deliberately excluded from directories and search results. Only invited members can access them.

Q: Can I change a group’s privacy after it’s created?
A: Yes, you can change the group privacy at any time from Group Settings or the Manage – Settings option on the frontend.

Q: Why don’t members see Private group posts?
A: Ensure that members have been approved or invited. In Private groups, only members can see content.

Q: Can non-members see who is in a Private group?
A: No, member lists are hidden from non-members in Private groups. Only basic details like the group name and avatar are visible.

Configuring Group Privacy in BuddyBoss empowers you to control who can find, join, and engage in community groups. By selecting the right privacy level—Public, Private, or Hidden—you can tailor group interactions to match your community’s needs.

We’re always happy to help with questions you might have! Search our documentation, contact support, or connect with our sales team.