Post by WaterIse on Sept 24, 2007 15:56:32 GMT -5
Simplified version
In case you don't want to read/sift through everything, here's a simplified version of the rules. For more information, look further down.
Guidelines
1. For every forum you go to, read the rules and FAQ's before posting.
2. Frequently check for announcements.
3. User ranks do not mean anything
Rules
1. Do not ask for downloads of full versions of games, music, movies, etc.
2. Discussion of nudity is not prohibited
3. Do not spam
4. Do not post more than once in a row (posting multiple times).
5. Only allowed to bump your topic 3 times a day
6. Do not make similar topics or post information that already exists.
7. Do not abuse smilies.
8. Do not post a long quote to say only one thing.
9. Do not troll.
10. Keep foul language to a minimum.
11. Do not disrespect a mod if he or she does disciplinary action towards you.
12. If you have a question about action done to you, PM another member of the administration.
13. Do not attempt to mod yourself.
14. If you have been banned, do not attempt to evade it.
15. Do not give a banned member access to your account.
16. Do not ask the administration why someone has been banned and/or create rallies to unban that person.
17. Do not send unsoliciated PM's (AKA, do not spam). This includes advertising and harassment.
18. Do not make and send chain PM's.
19. Do not PM a member of the administration to either unconstructively criticize or ask to become a member of the administration.
20. Signature Rules
General forum Guidelines
These aren't rules, but rather suggestions to help you avoid breaking rules.
1. For every forum you go to, read the rules and FAQ's before posting.
Nearly every forum has a set of specific rules and guidelines for that fourm. Some other forums may have stickies that answer common topics of question. Always read these stickies that are relevant to your interests, this may answer the question you want to ask. Also reading the rules and guidelines will help you understand if you're in the right forum when posting.
2. Frequently check for announcements.
Occasionally a new announcement will be posted. Sometimes its in regards to new avatars, forum issues (if it crashed or something), and stuff about the website, Serebii.net. Other times it's in regards to forum policies that are being reminded or that are new. Check frequently to avoid missing out.
3. User ranks do not mean anything
Having a higher user rank does not make you better, smarter, or superior to anyone else, so do not think you can bully people around or get brownie points for having a higher user rank. Also, as much as we know that having a high post count or rank might be something of an accomplishment, please note that the forum does get cleaned up once in a while. This means posts will be deleted to maintain neatness. This is especially true in times when a high rate of post closures happen in a single forum.
4. Forum Etiquette
1. Use a good level of English: People will have an easier time with you if you practice good English grammar and spelling. Notably, don't do similar to this: "I lyk 2 b a pkmn trainr bcuz its fun". People will take you more seriously if your spell your words and put commas, periods, and apostrophes where they belong. Also, when making a new topic, the title should be straight to the point of what you want to talk about, not going "Um..." or "I'm new at this..." or "Can someone help me?". Also, don't post in all caps. People interpret this as "screaming", which can be rude. It's good for emphasis when used correctly though.
2. Be patient: Allow time for a response to say a topic that you've recently posted. Posting after five minutes telling people to respond is not only rude, but if it's the first reply, it's breaking the rules for multiple posting, spam, and bumping (three rules broken in one post! Ouch!).
3. Use good intuition: It might be hard, but know what to take seriously, and what not to take seriously. If you're confused, ask the person. It doesn't do any harm to ask. Also, try not to make it personal. Also, it might be a bad forum habit, but please avoid saying "I haven't found this elsehwere" or similar when posting a topic. It's assumed that when you make a topic, you've actually checked... unless of course it's obvious.
4. Don't suck up to the administration: In other words, don't be buddy buddy with a mod for the reason that you want favors from that mod. It won't win you anything. The administration will actually mark you down for being too nice to them.
General forum rules
1. Do not ask or discuss illegal content.
Illegal content is any digital material that holds a copyright that was illegally copied and distributed. Such content can be described as the following, but is not limited to:
Television programs (this includes all anime)
Movies
OVA
Video games (this includes CD/DVD images, ROMs, and emulators)
Music
Manga
Books
This also bars out the discussion of P2P and File Sharing programs such as LimeWire, KaZaA, Bittorrent, etc. Asking for such is a spam infraction while providing such may result in a minor infraction or a major one.
We can't enforce this outside of the forums if you download content or have it on your PC (it's an invasion of privacy anyway). The reason why this rule is up is so that Serebii.net forums does not get tagged as a provider of content, in which is what companies do crack down upon. In otherwords, if we do allow this, we'll get legal threats. Serebii has reported that PUSA staff do attend these forums.
2. Discussion of cheating devices is not allowed.
This community is one that prefers to do everything as honestly as possible. Therefore the discussion of cheating devices such as Gameshark, Pro Action Replay, and Code Breaker is not allowed. There are various websites that offer codes if you need them, so do not ask for codes here. In fact, there is a page regarding places to get codes for Ruby/Sapphire. There's also a liability issue we don't want to have, as usage of such devices may invoke damage to the game cartridge or game file. Besides that, if you ask anyway, you're going to get unfavorable responses.
If you really want to obtain codes, various websites out there do exist that carry codes. Use www.google.com or another search engine to find them. Or you can simply buy a cheating device after a good time the game was made (give or take, six months to a year), and it'll be in the device when you buy it.
Posting rules
1. General posting rules
All posts must be at least ten characters (including spaces) in length. This restriction is enforced automatically, so you cannot say "yes" and that's it. Also do not write huge text (Size 4 or higher) consistently. People will make fun of you for doing so (especially in an argument, where it's most commonly used).
2. Do not spam
Spam is defined as the following, but not limited to:
Is obviously stupid, pointless, and/or annoying. e.g. "peekachew is teh r0x0rs!!!111!!" or "in before lock"
Does not contribute or is off topic. e.g. Topic about Manafi: "Manafi is the new Pokemon!" or "There should be a new battle system for D/P". This also includes posting just "Yeah, I agree" with nothing else.
Flames someone, or is flame bait (anything to start a massive insult war). e.g "Latios sucks!", "j00 n00b", and "<enter random people group> are <enter random insult>". An appropriate action depending on the severity of the flame will be given.
Attempts to say something with no information to provide a better understanding. This is typically treated as whining or gibberish. If something isn't provided in a few days, it'll be treated as spam.
Makes absolutely no sense. e.g. "OMFG I LIKE CAUGHT THIS MEWTWO AND THEN I TRADED MY CARD FOR A HOLO AND I ROXORS J00 YOUR TEAMS SUXORS LOLZ"
Advertises. Advertising in your signature is okay. Advertising is defined bare minimum as posting a link in your post to some random place. In other words, no outside links in general allowed in your posts. However, you can link to other sites if they are for the purpose of referencing or helping other people out.
Replying to a topic that a particular post is spam.
Minimodding. e.g. "The topic is answered now, it can be closed."
Remember, this isn't a random image posting board. Some of us don't tolerate such internet meme's like "in before <insert something here>" or a post with "bump" with some reason.
Also, please do not respond to any advertising bots topics. An example of such a topic is: (UNKNOWN)
3. Do not post more than once in a row (posting multiple times).
If you make a post (whether a topic or a reply), do not reply immediately after that post. If you have to make a correction, there is an edit button () located in the bottom right of your post. Press the button and you can edit your post that way. You can post multiple times only if you're posting in the fanfic or fanart forums, but only to update your work.
4. Do not bump topics.
Our definition of bumping is replying to an old (30 days or more) topic. However, if someone posts soley to keep the topic up at the top of the listings, that's also bumping, which is also against the rules. If you have something to contribute to the topic, then the only exceptions to this are:
Announcements
Stuck topics
Fan works, however only the author/artist that is posting to update his or her work may bump.
If the topic you want to start is already there, but is over a month old, you may start it over. Except depending on the topic of discussion, it maybe closed outright (for example, talking about old news that's not really relevant anymore). Use good judgement to decide whether or not the topic of discussion is good enough to be revived.
5. Do not make similar topics or post information that already exists.
The forum has a nifty search tool located in the menu just below where it tells you where you are. Also on the top right of the listings there's an option called "Search this forum" or "Search this thread". Use it to find out if what you want to post already exists. People get tired of seeing five topics or posts of the same exact information.
6. Do not abuse smilies.
This includes using the Unown smilies as normal letters. Smilies unnecessarily take up space when abused. At most the regular limit is a few (2-3). Also for some people who still use old interneting technology, having to load 30 some smilies creates long load times.
7. Do not post a long quote someone's post to say only one thing. (Considered as spam)
Posting a long quote (A long quote is anything beyond ten lines of text, including blank lines) and saying only a single sentence about it takes up space and especially for an extraordinarily long post, it's annoying to find out all you had to say was "I agree". If you want to address a person's particular post, make note of that person in particular. For example if Serebii posted something long, say something like "I agree with Serebii's post" instead of quoting Serebii's post and saying "I agree". If you want to comment on a post, only quote the words you're commenting on.
8. Do not troll
Trolling is defined as posting purely to annoy and pester a particular user, a general group, or just randomly. Trolls are annoying, no one likes annoying people.
9. Foul language usage
To make this clear:
1. Foul language is language that can't be used in television programs designed for children under 13.
2. You can use it, but use it RARELY. Even if the situation calls for you to use foul language, find another word.
3. Racial slurs, derogatory statements, and sexual slangs may have harsher consequences.
4. Do not use foul language in your signature, user title, or location, as this can be seen in every post.
10. Posting of explicit material is strictly forbidden.
Discussion of, or posting anything about something that generally is meant stricly for adults only is strictly forbidden. This mainly deals with posting of porn, sexually explicit dicussions, et al. However talking about some adult interests, such as Saturday Night Light, is allowed to some extent, provided you tag the topic title appropriately.
Dealing with the administration
Note: The administration are the moderators (Mod), moderator +'s (Mod +), super mods (SMod), and administrators (Admin). In the chatroom, they are the Half Ops (they have a % by their username) and Ops (they have a @ by their user name).
1. Do not disrespect a mod if he or she does disciplinary action towards you.
Disrespecting a mod will not make the situation better and it will leave a bad impression of the user. If you want to contest to an action, please be civil about it. Also note, that the more explanation given, the easier it is to understand where you're coming from.
2. If you have a question about action done to you, PM another member of the administration.
If you feel that you were treated unfairly, you can PM another Mod, Mod+, SMod, or Admin. Perferrebly you should PM an SMod or Admin. Again, please be civil about it.
3. Do not attempt to mod yourself.
This is called mini-modding. Basically, do not correct people if they're doing something wrong. On the top right of posts, there's a a report button () that you can use to report a person's post. And please do not post in threads saying something like "Good this has been answered and should be closed." That is mini-modding spam.
4. Do not ask to become a part of the administration.
Asking to do so will automatically forfeit your chances. Also, Serebii.net forums has more than enough members in the administration so there is no recruiting done at the moment. There is criteria for becoming a member of the administration, which can be found here.
5. Do not whine about an infraction.
If you whine about an infraction, you'll get more infraction points. Also remember that whining is different than complaining.
Ban related
A ban is when a member cannot return to the forums until either some length of time or indefinitely.
1. If you have been banned, do not attempt to evade it.
Evading a ban is attempting to create a new account under a different e-mail address, or other means of posting despite being banned. The administration can identify you via IP address and other means.
2. Do not give a banned member access to your account.
Being banned means that they are not allowed to come back, whether for a while or never. Giving a banned member access to your account willingly is being an accomplance. Do not do it.
3. Do not ask the administration why someone has been banned and/or create rallies to unban that person.
The administration does not go on a banning spree, as there's no incentive in doing so. In Serebii.net forums, the administration is doing its best to ensure all bans are justifiable and that we show no discrimination on banning. Creating rallies clamoring to unban a member will not help either.
PM rules
1. Do not send spam PM, make and send chain PMs, or PM a member of the administration to either unconstructively criticize or ask to become a member of the administration.
In short, do not abuse the PM system as a means to do unproductive things. This isn't a workaround to advertise, pester, or put down other members. It's merely a method to talk to another member privately. Think of it as a local email system... then think how you feel about getting spam in your inbox all the time.
2. How to report a PM.
Forward the problematic PM with a subject like "This person sent me a bad PM" or "Reporting a PM". It's helpful if you continously quote a conversation, in the event something happens. Keeping this quote stack will save you time in reporting the PM. However, we will confirm with the accused if they did the event. The accused has every right to submit a quote stack if what the administration saying isn't true (as the adminstration is only getting info at this point from the person reporting). If an issue arises, where quote stacks are different, then the administration will look at both persons' PMs to see who's doing what.
There are several consequences that'll happen:
1. The accused admits to the reporting PM, and gets a warning, or a small ban, depending on the severity of content.
2. The reporting person has a correct quote stack and the accused is caught forging the quote stack. If this happens, the accused is given a ban of several weeks to months and loses all PM privillages.
2. The reporting person is caught forging the quote stack. The reportee is given a ban of several weeks to months and loses all PM prillages.
As a privacy notice:
The only people allowed to look at PMs are the admins. The SPP Forums administration will not look at your PMs unless this situation arises. Just for two key reasons: 1. it's impractical (there are 15,000 member accounts, and less than 10 admins) 2. the administration really doesn't give two cents about your private conversations.
Signature rules
The complete list, in detail, can be found by clicking on this link. All inqueries about signatures should also be posted there.
Information regarding penalties
Definitions
1. Minor infractions
Committing infractions from the following rules count as minor:
All general rules.
All posting rules.
"Dealing with the administration" rules 1-3.
"Ban related" 3.
Rules specific to other forums.
2. Major infractions
Committing infractions from the following rules count as major:
"Ban related" 1 and 2
Severe content in posts (racial slurs or other derogatory comments, unnecessary amount of trash talk, mass advertising, etc.)
Amount of spam posts outnumber to a great degree the number of okay posts.
Lying to anyone in the administration about something penalty related.
Offering/providing illegal content in some form or fashion.
Rules specific to other forums.
A member can be immediately banned without warning if a major infraction is committed.
3. PM infractions
Depending on the frequency and the severity of the infraction, PM privillages will be taken away.
4. Signature infractions
Penalties will occure in the following order.
At strike 1-2: The problematic area of the sig will be deleted.
At strike 3-4: Entire sig will be wiped. Bans may or will be issued.
At strike 5: Sig privillages removed. Ban will be issued.
Infraction Point System and Usernotes
The punishment system is based upon points. This is different from the signature strike system (the two systems are different since the consquences aren't the same). How it works is a mod sees a member committing an infraction, and gives a mark. This will then notify the person via PM or email that they've been tagged for committing an infraction. Infractions have certain point values, and once a certain number of points has been accumulated, the person will be automatically banned. Also when you get marked for an infraction, it will appear on your profile (only you and the adminstration can see it), and the reason for the infraction will be seen with it as a post link.
Note: you cannot get away with editing your post finding out you've committed an infraction. All edits and infraction marks have time stamps. Obviously if the time stamp of the last edit is later than that of the infraction, you have nothing for you if you attempt to contest to the infraction. Also we have an archive with a carbon copy of that post, attempting to make yourself look innocent will not work.
This is a list of infractions and their point value.
Foul Language - 1 Point
Providing Links to Downloads of Illegal Content - 3 Points
Asking for help with Cheat Devices/Codes - 3 Points
Flaming/Insulting Other People - 3 Points
Spamming - 3 Points
Double Posting - 3 Points (This is with exception to select forums where it is permissible as stated in that section's rules.)
Sending Unsolicited PMs - 3 Points
Sending Chain PMs - 3 Points
Abusing Smilies - 3 Points
Bumping Topics - 3 Points
Advertising - 3 Points
Triple Posting - 4 Points
Posting with the intent to annoy others - 5 Points
Quadruple Posting - 5 Points
Mini-Modding - 5 Points
Quintuple Posting - 6 Points
Posting more than 5 times in a row - 15 Points
Posting Porn or other explicit material - 70 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Pure Trolling - 100 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Evading Ban - 130 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Giving your account details to a Banned user - 130 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
The administration can also give custom infractions for things that are not covered by the above, or for a combination.
This is a list of what bans will be issued after a certain amount of points have accumulated.
20 Points:- 1 Week Ban
40 Points:- 2 Week Ban
60 Points:- 1 Month Ban
80 Points:- 2 Month Ban
100 Points:- 3 Month Ban
130 Points:- PermaBan
Usernotes are a way for the administration to keep a track of any issues you may be developing, such as a spamming issue, signature strike, other otherwise. You and the adminstration can see them, and can access them any time through your profile.
Other Notes
1. Involvement
If something like a flamewar has broken out between two or more parties, which include at least one person in each, although the party who started it will get in trouble, it's justifiable that all parties that were involved will get the same punishment. This does not mean however, that they will receive the same punishment.
2. Explanation provided when penalties are given.
The administration is required to provide explanations for banning (as per Serebii's request). All bans must go documented as well.
However, explanations for topic closures may or may not be given. If the topic is obviously breaking the rules, the whoever closes or deletes it does not have to provide an explanation. For example, if someone went "OMFG I LIKE CAUGHT THIS MEWTWO AND THEN I TRADED MY CARD FOR A HOLO AND I ROXORS J00 YOUR TEAMS SUXORS LOLZ" as a topic, the administration can remove the topic (close or delete) without explanation, notification, or otherwise letting the topic starter know why the topic was closed. We want you to use your head once in a while. Explanations for topic closures of more obscure reasons will (or should) be provided.
The administration reserves the right to close topics given a good reason. If you did not like the reason provided, then you can request a better explanation, but try not to make it into an argument.
3. How you will be notified if there is a problem.
When you are issued an infraction, you will be given a PM/email warning. Moderators may also PM or email you.
4. Time buffer policy.
All infractions, unless noted otherwise on the list, have expiration dates, usually 45 days. So yes, your points will decrease over time assuming you haven't committed any major infractions. Certain actions may invoke custom infractions, and may not expire.
5. New members.
If you are a new member, the administration will not give you leeway. Penalties will not be lessened based upon account age. You are expected to read these rules and at least be familiar with them.
6. Contesting to an issued penalty.
You have every right to contest (that is, attempt to disprove) a penalty or
In case you don't want to read/sift through everything, here's a simplified version of the rules. For more information, look further down.
Guidelines
1. For every forum you go to, read the rules and FAQ's before posting.
2. Frequently check for announcements.
3. User ranks do not mean anything
Rules
1. Do not ask for downloads of full versions of games, music, movies, etc.
2. Discussion of nudity is not prohibited
3. Do not spam
4. Do not post more than once in a row (posting multiple times).
5. Only allowed to bump your topic 3 times a day
6. Do not make similar topics or post information that already exists.
7. Do not abuse smilies.
8. Do not post a long quote to say only one thing.
9. Do not troll.
10. Keep foul language to a minimum.
11. Do not disrespect a mod if he or she does disciplinary action towards you.
12. If you have a question about action done to you, PM another member of the administration.
13. Do not attempt to mod yourself.
14. If you have been banned, do not attempt to evade it.
15. Do not give a banned member access to your account.
16. Do not ask the administration why someone has been banned and/or create rallies to unban that person.
17. Do not send unsoliciated PM's (AKA, do not spam). This includes advertising and harassment.
18. Do not make and send chain PM's.
19. Do not PM a member of the administration to either unconstructively criticize or ask to become a member of the administration.
20. Signature Rules
General forum Guidelines
These aren't rules, but rather suggestions to help you avoid breaking rules.
1. For every forum you go to, read the rules and FAQ's before posting.
Nearly every forum has a set of specific rules and guidelines for that fourm. Some other forums may have stickies that answer common topics of question. Always read these stickies that are relevant to your interests, this may answer the question you want to ask. Also reading the rules and guidelines will help you understand if you're in the right forum when posting.
2. Frequently check for announcements.
Occasionally a new announcement will be posted. Sometimes its in regards to new avatars, forum issues (if it crashed or something), and stuff about the website, Serebii.net. Other times it's in regards to forum policies that are being reminded or that are new. Check frequently to avoid missing out.
3. User ranks do not mean anything
Having a higher user rank does not make you better, smarter, or superior to anyone else, so do not think you can bully people around or get brownie points for having a higher user rank. Also, as much as we know that having a high post count or rank might be something of an accomplishment, please note that the forum does get cleaned up once in a while. This means posts will be deleted to maintain neatness. This is especially true in times when a high rate of post closures happen in a single forum.
4. Forum Etiquette
1. Use a good level of English: People will have an easier time with you if you practice good English grammar and spelling. Notably, don't do similar to this: "I lyk 2 b a pkmn trainr bcuz its fun". People will take you more seriously if your spell your words and put commas, periods, and apostrophes where they belong. Also, when making a new topic, the title should be straight to the point of what you want to talk about, not going "Um..." or "I'm new at this..." or "Can someone help me?". Also, don't post in all caps. People interpret this as "screaming", which can be rude. It's good for emphasis when used correctly though.
2. Be patient: Allow time for a response to say a topic that you've recently posted. Posting after five minutes telling people to respond is not only rude, but if it's the first reply, it's breaking the rules for multiple posting, spam, and bumping (three rules broken in one post! Ouch!).
3. Use good intuition: It might be hard, but know what to take seriously, and what not to take seriously. If you're confused, ask the person. It doesn't do any harm to ask. Also, try not to make it personal. Also, it might be a bad forum habit, but please avoid saying "I haven't found this elsehwere" or similar when posting a topic. It's assumed that when you make a topic, you've actually checked... unless of course it's obvious.
4. Don't suck up to the administration: In other words, don't be buddy buddy with a mod for the reason that you want favors from that mod. It won't win you anything. The administration will actually mark you down for being too nice to them.
General forum rules
1. Do not ask or discuss illegal content.
Illegal content is any digital material that holds a copyright that was illegally copied and distributed. Such content can be described as the following, but is not limited to:
Television programs (this includes all anime)
Movies
OVA
Video games (this includes CD/DVD images, ROMs, and emulators)
Music
Manga
Books
This also bars out the discussion of P2P and File Sharing programs such as LimeWire, KaZaA, Bittorrent, etc. Asking for such is a spam infraction while providing such may result in a minor infraction or a major one.
We can't enforce this outside of the forums if you download content or have it on your PC (it's an invasion of privacy anyway). The reason why this rule is up is so that Serebii.net forums does not get tagged as a provider of content, in which is what companies do crack down upon. In otherwords, if we do allow this, we'll get legal threats. Serebii has reported that PUSA staff do attend these forums.
2. Discussion of cheating devices is not allowed.
This community is one that prefers to do everything as honestly as possible. Therefore the discussion of cheating devices such as Gameshark, Pro Action Replay, and Code Breaker is not allowed. There are various websites that offer codes if you need them, so do not ask for codes here. In fact, there is a page regarding places to get codes for Ruby/Sapphire. There's also a liability issue we don't want to have, as usage of such devices may invoke damage to the game cartridge or game file. Besides that, if you ask anyway, you're going to get unfavorable responses.
If you really want to obtain codes, various websites out there do exist that carry codes. Use www.google.com or another search engine to find them. Or you can simply buy a cheating device after a good time the game was made (give or take, six months to a year), and it'll be in the device when you buy it.
Posting rules
1. General posting rules
All posts must be at least ten characters (including spaces) in length. This restriction is enforced automatically, so you cannot say "yes" and that's it. Also do not write huge text (Size 4 or higher) consistently. People will make fun of you for doing so (especially in an argument, where it's most commonly used).
2. Do not spam
Spam is defined as the following, but not limited to:
Is obviously stupid, pointless, and/or annoying. e.g. "peekachew is teh r0x0rs!!!111!!" or "in before lock"
Does not contribute or is off topic. e.g. Topic about Manafi: "Manafi is the new Pokemon!" or "There should be a new battle system for D/P". This also includes posting just "Yeah, I agree" with nothing else.
Flames someone, or is flame bait (anything to start a massive insult war). e.g "Latios sucks!", "j00 n00b", and "<enter random people group> are <enter random insult>". An appropriate action depending on the severity of the flame will be given.
Attempts to say something with no information to provide a better understanding. This is typically treated as whining or gibberish. If something isn't provided in a few days, it'll be treated as spam.
Makes absolutely no sense. e.g. "OMFG I LIKE CAUGHT THIS MEWTWO AND THEN I TRADED MY CARD FOR A HOLO AND I ROXORS J00 YOUR TEAMS SUXORS LOLZ"
Advertises. Advertising in your signature is okay. Advertising is defined bare minimum as posting a link in your post to some random place. In other words, no outside links in general allowed in your posts. However, you can link to other sites if they are for the purpose of referencing or helping other people out.
Replying to a topic that a particular post is spam.
Minimodding. e.g. "The topic is answered now, it can be closed."
Remember, this isn't a random image posting board. Some of us don't tolerate such internet meme's like "in before <insert something here>" or a post with "bump" with some reason.
Also, please do not respond to any advertising bots topics. An example of such a topic is: (UNKNOWN)
3. Do not post more than once in a row (posting multiple times).
If you make a post (whether a topic or a reply), do not reply immediately after that post. If you have to make a correction, there is an edit button () located in the bottom right of your post. Press the button and you can edit your post that way. You can post multiple times only if you're posting in the fanfic or fanart forums, but only to update your work.
4. Do not bump topics.
Our definition of bumping is replying to an old (30 days or more) topic. However, if someone posts soley to keep the topic up at the top of the listings, that's also bumping, which is also against the rules. If you have something to contribute to the topic, then the only exceptions to this are:
Announcements
Stuck topics
Fan works, however only the author/artist that is posting to update his or her work may bump.
If the topic you want to start is already there, but is over a month old, you may start it over. Except depending on the topic of discussion, it maybe closed outright (for example, talking about old news that's not really relevant anymore). Use good judgement to decide whether or not the topic of discussion is good enough to be revived.
5. Do not make similar topics or post information that already exists.
The forum has a nifty search tool located in the menu just below where it tells you where you are. Also on the top right of the listings there's an option called "Search this forum" or "Search this thread". Use it to find out if what you want to post already exists. People get tired of seeing five topics or posts of the same exact information.
6. Do not abuse smilies.
This includes using the Unown smilies as normal letters. Smilies unnecessarily take up space when abused. At most the regular limit is a few (2-3). Also for some people who still use old interneting technology, having to load 30 some smilies creates long load times.
7. Do not post a long quote someone's post to say only one thing. (Considered as spam)
Posting a long quote (A long quote is anything beyond ten lines of text, including blank lines) and saying only a single sentence about it takes up space and especially for an extraordinarily long post, it's annoying to find out all you had to say was "I agree". If you want to address a person's particular post, make note of that person in particular. For example if Serebii posted something long, say something like "I agree with Serebii's post" instead of quoting Serebii's post and saying "I agree". If you want to comment on a post, only quote the words you're commenting on.
8. Do not troll
Trolling is defined as posting purely to annoy and pester a particular user, a general group, or just randomly. Trolls are annoying, no one likes annoying people.
9. Foul language usage
To make this clear:
1. Foul language is language that can't be used in television programs designed for children under 13.
2. You can use it, but use it RARELY. Even if the situation calls for you to use foul language, find another word.
3. Racial slurs, derogatory statements, and sexual slangs may have harsher consequences.
4. Do not use foul language in your signature, user title, or location, as this can be seen in every post.
10. Posting of explicit material is strictly forbidden.
Discussion of, or posting anything about something that generally is meant stricly for adults only is strictly forbidden. This mainly deals with posting of porn, sexually explicit dicussions, et al. However talking about some adult interests, such as Saturday Night Light, is allowed to some extent, provided you tag the topic title appropriately.
Dealing with the administration
Note: The administration are the moderators (Mod), moderator +'s (Mod +), super mods (SMod), and administrators (Admin). In the chatroom, they are the Half Ops (they have a % by their username) and Ops (they have a @ by their user name).
1. Do not disrespect a mod if he or she does disciplinary action towards you.
Disrespecting a mod will not make the situation better and it will leave a bad impression of the user. If you want to contest to an action, please be civil about it. Also note, that the more explanation given, the easier it is to understand where you're coming from.
2. If you have a question about action done to you, PM another member of the administration.
If you feel that you were treated unfairly, you can PM another Mod, Mod+, SMod, or Admin. Perferrebly you should PM an SMod or Admin. Again, please be civil about it.
3. Do not attempt to mod yourself.
This is called mini-modding. Basically, do not correct people if they're doing something wrong. On the top right of posts, there's a a report button () that you can use to report a person's post. And please do not post in threads saying something like "Good this has been answered and should be closed." That is mini-modding spam.
4. Do not ask to become a part of the administration.
Asking to do so will automatically forfeit your chances. Also, Serebii.net forums has more than enough members in the administration so there is no recruiting done at the moment. There is criteria for becoming a member of the administration, which can be found here.
5. Do not whine about an infraction.
If you whine about an infraction, you'll get more infraction points. Also remember that whining is different than complaining.
Ban related
A ban is when a member cannot return to the forums until either some length of time or indefinitely.
1. If you have been banned, do not attempt to evade it.
Evading a ban is attempting to create a new account under a different e-mail address, or other means of posting despite being banned. The administration can identify you via IP address and other means.
2. Do not give a banned member access to your account.
Being banned means that they are not allowed to come back, whether for a while or never. Giving a banned member access to your account willingly is being an accomplance. Do not do it.
3. Do not ask the administration why someone has been banned and/or create rallies to unban that person.
The administration does not go on a banning spree, as there's no incentive in doing so. In Serebii.net forums, the administration is doing its best to ensure all bans are justifiable and that we show no discrimination on banning. Creating rallies clamoring to unban a member will not help either.
PM rules
1. Do not send spam PM, make and send chain PMs, or PM a member of the administration to either unconstructively criticize or ask to become a member of the administration.
In short, do not abuse the PM system as a means to do unproductive things. This isn't a workaround to advertise, pester, or put down other members. It's merely a method to talk to another member privately. Think of it as a local email system... then think how you feel about getting spam in your inbox all the time.
2. How to report a PM.
Forward the problematic PM with a subject like "This person sent me a bad PM" or "Reporting a PM". It's helpful if you continously quote a conversation, in the event something happens. Keeping this quote stack will save you time in reporting the PM. However, we will confirm with the accused if they did the event. The accused has every right to submit a quote stack if what the administration saying isn't true (as the adminstration is only getting info at this point from the person reporting). If an issue arises, where quote stacks are different, then the administration will look at both persons' PMs to see who's doing what.
There are several consequences that'll happen:
1. The accused admits to the reporting PM, and gets a warning, or a small ban, depending on the severity of content.
2. The reporting person has a correct quote stack and the accused is caught forging the quote stack. If this happens, the accused is given a ban of several weeks to months and loses all PM privillages.
2. The reporting person is caught forging the quote stack. The reportee is given a ban of several weeks to months and loses all PM prillages.
As a privacy notice:
The only people allowed to look at PMs are the admins. The SPP Forums administration will not look at your PMs unless this situation arises. Just for two key reasons: 1. it's impractical (there are 15,000 member accounts, and less than 10 admins) 2. the administration really doesn't give two cents about your private conversations.
Signature rules
The complete list, in detail, can be found by clicking on this link. All inqueries about signatures should also be posted there.
Information regarding penalties
Definitions
1. Minor infractions
Committing infractions from the following rules count as minor:
All general rules.
All posting rules.
"Dealing with the administration" rules 1-3.
"Ban related" 3.
Rules specific to other forums.
2. Major infractions
Committing infractions from the following rules count as major:
"Ban related" 1 and 2
Severe content in posts (racial slurs or other derogatory comments, unnecessary amount of trash talk, mass advertising, etc.)
Amount of spam posts outnumber to a great degree the number of okay posts.
Lying to anyone in the administration about something penalty related.
Offering/providing illegal content in some form or fashion.
Rules specific to other forums.
A member can be immediately banned without warning if a major infraction is committed.
3. PM infractions
Depending on the frequency and the severity of the infraction, PM privillages will be taken away.
4. Signature infractions
Penalties will occure in the following order.
At strike 1-2: The problematic area of the sig will be deleted.
At strike 3-4: Entire sig will be wiped. Bans may or will be issued.
At strike 5: Sig privillages removed. Ban will be issued.
Infraction Point System and Usernotes
The punishment system is based upon points. This is different from the signature strike system (the two systems are different since the consquences aren't the same). How it works is a mod sees a member committing an infraction, and gives a mark. This will then notify the person via PM or email that they've been tagged for committing an infraction. Infractions have certain point values, and once a certain number of points has been accumulated, the person will be automatically banned. Also when you get marked for an infraction, it will appear on your profile (only you and the adminstration can see it), and the reason for the infraction will be seen with it as a post link.
Note: you cannot get away with editing your post finding out you've committed an infraction. All edits and infraction marks have time stamps. Obviously if the time stamp of the last edit is later than that of the infraction, you have nothing for you if you attempt to contest to the infraction. Also we have an archive with a carbon copy of that post, attempting to make yourself look innocent will not work.
This is a list of infractions and their point value.
Foul Language - 1 Point
Providing Links to Downloads of Illegal Content - 3 Points
Asking for help with Cheat Devices/Codes - 3 Points
Flaming/Insulting Other People - 3 Points
Spamming - 3 Points
Double Posting - 3 Points (This is with exception to select forums where it is permissible as stated in that section's rules.)
Sending Unsolicited PMs - 3 Points
Sending Chain PMs - 3 Points
Abusing Smilies - 3 Points
Bumping Topics - 3 Points
Advertising - 3 Points
Triple Posting - 4 Points
Posting with the intent to annoy others - 5 Points
Quadruple Posting - 5 Points
Mini-Modding - 5 Points
Quintuple Posting - 6 Points
Posting more than 5 times in a row - 15 Points
Posting Porn or other explicit material - 70 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Pure Trolling - 100 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Evading Ban - 130 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
Giving your account details to a Banned user - 130 Points - Does Not Expire - No Warning
The administration can also give custom infractions for things that are not covered by the above, or for a combination.
This is a list of what bans will be issued after a certain amount of points have accumulated.
20 Points:- 1 Week Ban
40 Points:- 2 Week Ban
60 Points:- 1 Month Ban
80 Points:- 2 Month Ban
100 Points:- 3 Month Ban
130 Points:- PermaBan
Usernotes are a way for the administration to keep a track of any issues you may be developing, such as a spamming issue, signature strike, other otherwise. You and the adminstration can see them, and can access them any time through your profile.
Other Notes
1. Involvement
If something like a flamewar has broken out between two or more parties, which include at least one person in each, although the party who started it will get in trouble, it's justifiable that all parties that were involved will get the same punishment. This does not mean however, that they will receive the same punishment.
2. Explanation provided when penalties are given.
The administration is required to provide explanations for banning (as per Serebii's request). All bans must go documented as well.
However, explanations for topic closures may or may not be given. If the topic is obviously breaking the rules, the whoever closes or deletes it does not have to provide an explanation. For example, if someone went "OMFG I LIKE CAUGHT THIS MEWTWO AND THEN I TRADED MY CARD FOR A HOLO AND I ROXORS J00 YOUR TEAMS SUXORS LOLZ" as a topic, the administration can remove the topic (close or delete) without explanation, notification, or otherwise letting the topic starter know why the topic was closed. We want you to use your head once in a while. Explanations for topic closures of more obscure reasons will (or should) be provided.
The administration reserves the right to close topics given a good reason. If you did not like the reason provided, then you can request a better explanation, but try not to make it into an argument.
3. How you will be notified if there is a problem.
When you are issued an infraction, you will be given a PM/email warning. Moderators may also PM or email you.
4. Time buffer policy.
All infractions, unless noted otherwise on the list, have expiration dates, usually 45 days. So yes, your points will decrease over time assuming you haven't committed any major infractions. Certain actions may invoke custom infractions, and may not expire.
5. New members.
If you are a new member, the administration will not give you leeway. Penalties will not be lessened based upon account age. You are expected to read these rules and at least be familiar with them.
6. Contesting to an issued penalty.
You have every right to contest (that is, attempt to disprove) a penalty or