This system of "
User Infractions" is based on points given for
the violation(s), or the frequency of violations in a defined period of
time. Because we believe that the use of the "
Frequency of Violations"
would be too much like a "
3 Strikes & You're Out" attitude,
not allowing for the difference in severity of the violation.
Therefore, we will be using the point system.
In this system specific violations of the Terms of Service and
Community Policy located in the FAQs will be configured as "Infraction
Levels".
Infraction Levels will be configured as follows, this is a rough
description of how it works....
- Points: A
point value based on the severity of the violation. For example,
spammers, pornography, & researchers would get enough points so
that they would be immediately receive a permanent ban, while someone
who merely lost their temper & posted something inappropriate would
get a very small number of points.
- Expiration Time: Each
infraction has an expiration time. These are set to the amount of time
that this infraction stays in the user's "Infraction Record". Once the
expiration time has passed, the points are removed.
- Ban Levels:
These are set at levels so that temporary or permanent bans are given
when member has received enough points for that level. Example: A one
day ban may be set for 5 points, 2 days at 10pts, where a permanent ban
might be at 50-100.....
- Suspension vs Banning: For this
system, BTC has created a new group for those that have received a
temporary ban. This is the "Suspended User" group. When a user is placed
on a temporary ban, they are given the permissions of this usergroup
rather than the "Banned" usergroup. This way, a member that is
suspended, can still be allowed some forum privileges.
Please Note:
- Infraction points add up.
If a user receives enough Infraction Points to add up to a Ban Level,
before the expiration time is up for the infractions, then they will be
banned for the period of time that the number of points allows.
- Infractions are Reversible This may only be done by
communicating privately
with the moderators. The way to do this is by contacting them through email.
- Infractions are Discussed.
Using features available in vBulletin, we
now have a forum where all infractions given, automatically create a
discussion thread. Here moderators are kept informed about all actions
taken. Since no moderator is above making errors of judgement, or the possibility of simply
clicking on the wrong button, this gives a space for the other moderators
to comment and give their opinion. If it is decided that any action
taken was improper for the situation, then it can, and will be adjusted if needed.
- Our Infraction System will be an ongoing development.
Over time, we will be developing this system, editing and amending it to better suit the needs of the community,
to more effectively, & and fairly give consequences to situations that
commonly occur here. When new issues regarding violations of BTC
policy, new infractions may be defined and added.
My personal opinion;
Is that it will give an approach to our online community moderation
that shows more "Mercy under the Law", so to speak. All infractions
except the most extreme all are "forgiven" over time. The only ones
that get permanently banned will be those who insist upon repeatedly
breaking the rules. Since all warnings given are also governed by the
same expiration period, when dealing with minor infractions, usually
only those with a previous warning for that offense will receive
infraction points. If I can tweak things right, "Suspended Users" will
have a forum where they may freely and openly discuss their position
with the moderators.
What you can do as members: All of us volunteering at BTC always
invite members to post any ideas, suggestions, and even constructive
criticisms & complaints.
By all means, please feel perfectly free to comment or ask questions,
however, BTC does expect that they follow the Community Policy of being
Supportive, Respectful, & Informative.
Thank you for your participation & cooperation.
David Hosobuchi
Community Manager
This post may be edited or amended as developments to this system are
implemented.
