Moderation info for users
This is a brief summary of how moderation can work, from the point of view of a user.
Flagging
People can flag posts for attention. On most forums software, nothing actually happens until a staff member makes a decision. On Discourse, the post can get hidden if several people flag it, or if one person with a high enough trust level flags it. Sometimes, people don’t realise beforehand that a post will be hidden. Therefore, it doesn’t necessarily follow that you’ve done something very dreadful.
If your post receives a flag, you will get a canned message. Some of them invite you to reword your post to better comply with the Code of Conduct, and we encourage you to take up that offer if it’s presented to you.
Ultimately, the mods will decide what to do about your post. It may be moved, split off to its own thread, or remain hidden. Remember that mods have lives and aren’t online all the time, and it may be a little while before something happens.
Other “housekeeping”
We like to keep threads on track and to encourage others to start their own. If we split off a post to its own thread, move it to another category or maybe even add it to an existing thread, you’ll get a notification.
You might get a request to use code or quote blocks, or other technical details; or a mod may add these for you. In the latter case, you’ll get a notification that the post has been edited.
We understand that some topics can easily get heated. You might get a PM asking you to tone down your language, to refrain from personal attack and so on. This isn’t intended as censorship. You may still express your opinions, and you’ll likely find that a more reasoned style is actually more effective.
A single PM or flag doesn’t mean that you’re in serious trouble. If you respond reasonably and the issue gets sorted, then everyone can continue happily.
“Slow mode” and closing threads
If a thread has got overheated, or a mod thinks it probably will go that way, then “slow mode” may be set. That means that no one can post more often than a set period of time (maybe two hours) and posts can’t be edited. Similarly, a thread may be closed entirely for a while, to allow everyone to cool off. These actions work at the thread level and aren’t directed at anyone in particular.
Warnings and so forth
There are other actions which mods can take where a PM doesn’t result in a resolution. These include a formal warning as part of a PM, which goes on a user’s record, but doesn’t have any effect on ability to post etc. There is also silencing, which means that the user can’t post for a set length of time, but can still log in, read posts and send PMs. Suspension involves not being able to log in at all; it mostly lasts for a set period of time and then expires, though not always. Silencing gets notified to the user by email and PM. Suspended users don’t get a PM, but if they try to log in, the reason is displayed to them.
Three strikes
In general, users who misbehave are allowed three “strikes” before they are suspended permanently. The “strikes” are likely to involve increasing restrictions (silencing / suspension). Someone who is on this path will be told what is happening, usually with a very straightforward “this is strike one” (or “two” or “three”).
Exceptions
Exceptions to the above include spammers, who are immediately banned. Also very obnoxious and aggressive behaviour, where it appears obvious that the user isn’t going to be happy with our rules, may result in permanent suspension in less than three strikes.
Appeals
If you disagree with a mod’s decision, you may appeal.
Other staff
You can PM another mod, or PM the staff in general and make your case there. (It needs to be made factually and respectfully, or it’s not going to get much traction.)
Community Council
If you’re not happy with the result of appealing to other staff, and you feel you have a case, you may appeal to the Community Council. You will need to send all relevant information (origin of the mod action, mod action, why you believe it’s necessary to appeal, etc.) to community-council@lists.ubuntu.com (which is a private list) and explain why you believe the action needs to be appealed. The Community Council will review the complaint and address them on a case-by-case basis.
