Whats up with infractions?

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Infractions are a relatively new feature on the Downs, effective since the last update. Only moderators and administrators can give infractions. Infractions are given for failing to comply with forum rules; the following things can be the cause:

excessive chattiness
off-topic (Non-Tolkien) posting
inappropriate language
insulting other member(s)
spammed advertisement

If you receive an infraction, you will also get a PM explaining the cause. One infraction has no immediate results except in the case of spamming. The first two reasons receive the lowest number of points, the last one the highest.

Anyone who posts respectfully, whether humorously or thoughtfully, need not fear infractions. They are normally reserved for repeated offences except in the case of spamming. Spam results in immediate infraction and banning.

If you have received an infraction and wonder why, it may be a good idea to brush up on forum rules and policies on following threads:

Barrow-Downs FAQ
Barrow-Downs Forum Policies
Guidelines for Forum Posting

Here are a couple of pertinent passages from the latter thread:

Originally Posted by Estelyn Telcontar

6. Give your opinion on the issue, not on the other persons involved in the debate. Personal insults are not allowed, and putting a winking smilie or “j/k” behind them doesn’t necessarily make them more palatable.

8. Accept the fact that others have different opinions. Read them and think about them – you just might learn something! If you don’t agree, just state your own opinion; you don’t have to correct everyone else’s or argue until they agree with you.

9. If you don’t like the direction a thread has taken, move on! There are so many others for you to enjoy.

10. And finally, don’t take yourself or the Barrow-Downs too seriously! Does it really matter if you win an argument? We are all here to have fun!