The infraction system

[Norton]

Some have asked how the infraction system works.

If a member violates the forum rules either in letter or spirit, or behaves in a manner that we feel is inconsistent with the mission of the forum, the staff has the ability to issue infractions.

This system assigns points for various breaches of forum rules and etiquette which are then accumulated by the member who receives them.

The infraction points can be expiring or permanent. Most of the time they are expiring after a period of time, which can vary depending on what the staff member feels is warranted.

If a member receives a certain number of accumulated points within a specified time, the software will automatically issue a ban. This ban is reviewed by the staff member who is assigning the infraction that is the "tipping point".

This ban can be temporary (which it usually is) or it can be permanent.

The infraction system ensures that members who run afoul of the forum's rules are given ample opportunity to align their behavior with the expectations of the community and allows the site staff to each be able to track a member's history.

If a member receives an infraction, the software sends a PM notification to the member, which also provides a link to the post that resulted in the infraction.