Hey everyone!
There's been a lot of discussion and thought put into how to revise and update board rules the last few weeks. Clearly there's a lot of important things that need to be addressed. We implemented a few fixes early on, and shored up moderation needs on a few boards. However, to get down to all the issues and concerns addressed took time and a lot of thorough discussion. Fortunately, I think we have made some changes that will help going forward.
Special thanks once again to those who took the time to provide thoughts and feedback regarding their impressions on the board. They were very useful in helping us come to decisions on some key areas of focus.
Without further ado --
Board Rule Updates & Revisions
Sexist, Misogynistic or Explicit Comments and Images
A few years back, we attempted to create a new set of guidelines regarding sexism, harassment, and sexually explicit content. To a degree these changes were effective, and reduced some glaring problems we found regularly occurring on the boards. However, based off discussions in the years following the implementation of these rules, it is evident that more needs to be done. With that in mind, we have added the following rule and guideline changes.
Explicit Sexual Content/Descriptions
Thread titles or posts expressing excessive sexual commentary or descriptions towards another person (real or fictional) will be removed, and banned if it becomes habitual. This includes (but is not limited to) explicit commentary involving bodily fluids, masturbation, oral, anal, and penetrative sex. Discussion of sex remains acceptable on the boards, and people are welcome to express their attractions (within legal reason) as they see fit, but we want to reiterate that the discussion needs to be handled in a mature manner (we actually already have a TOS rule for this).
Sexually Demeaning/Abusive Language
As mentioned earlier, a few years ago we announced new sexism guidelines for the boards. We remain committed to adhering to and moderating based off those guidelines. However, as an extension of those rules, we also are going to extend our definition for "sexually demeaning and abusive language" to include general discussion and commentary towards those outside of the boards, not just users.
There have been a lot of demeaning or flat out inappropriate comments on the boards relating to sex workers and folks who use sites like OnlyFans to generate money or make a living. Calling people in this line of work "whores," "sluts," or other similar type of terms will no longer be allowed on the forums. Comments in this vein will be removed, and if it becomes a habitual issue for users, warnings and bans will be issued as necessary.
Cropped Porn Icons
As a reminder, cropped porn icons are not allowed. Users discovered to be using icons cropped from porn will be asked to remove them, and if they fail to comply will be banned until they comply.
Incendiary Political Language
Another area that has seen a number of changes in recent years is our stance towards political commentary. Given the general nature of politics it's no surprise that these type of topics tend to get heated, and often lead to bans, possibly moreso than any subject matter on the boards. While we do not want to eliminate political discussion from the boards, we do want to attempt to maintain a more civil form of discourse. In the past, we have removed derogatory/inflammatory terms for political parties such as "libtard," "cuckservative," and other similar terms. There has been a recent uptick in usage of some of these terms however, so let this serve as a reminder that they are still not allowed to be used, and habitual usage can potentially result in a ban.
In addition to reinforcing moderation of the previous terms, we are also expanding the rule a bit. When users use terms like "Communist" for Democrats, or "Fascist/Nazi" for Republicans to dismiss differing views instead of holding open discussion, legitimate discussions get stalled and often become more hostile and disruptive for general board discourse (not to mention, it often leads to bans). These type of posts and/or threads will be removed going forward, and users will be subject to ban if it becomes a repeated issue.
"Babe Thread" Etiquette
There has been a lot of discussion recently regarding the "Babe Threads" that are popular on many of the general discussion boards. While we want to allow users the opportunity to celebrate their favorite celebrities/personalities/models, etc., we also recognize that these type of threads can lead to both imagery and commentary that can make for an uncomfortable board environment for some. As such, we want to try and clarify some details on how these type of threads should be handled.
Lewd/Crass/Descriptive Sexual Comments
Much like within the general boards as a whole, overly lewd/crass/descriptive sexual comments have become a major issue in these type of threads. Saying you find a model hot is not a problem, but the overtly descriptive and downright explicit manner some decide to express their interest is something that needs to stop. Such comments will be removed and are potentially subject to ban.
Regarding Images
As for the type of images posted in these threads themselves, leaked or hacked images of celebrities during private moments and done without the person's consent are not allowed. Paparazzi pictures are allowed, so long as they are taken in public and not obscene. In terms of where to draw the line on appropriate pictures, the general rule of thumb should be that if an image would not be suitable for a PG-13 movie or TV show, it shouldn't be on the boards.
In line with the above general rule of thumb, we are lifting the ban on posting images where nipples are visible underneath a shirt (think Jennifer Aniston on Friends). Posting actual nipples or areola remains against the TOS and will continue to be subject to ban.
Onlyfans Content/Information
OnlyFans has become a popular destination in recent years. However, much of the content from it is not compatible with the IGN Boards TOS. With that in mind, linking to NSFW images or directing users to an individual's OnlyFans page is not allowed, and subject to ban.
Harassment and Bigotry
Another area that we've received a lot of feedback on in recent months is regarding the treatment and commentary made towards LGBTQ+ users. Above all else, we want to make it very clear that harassment and bigotry towards LGBTQ+ users will not be tolerated here. We've made some adjustments prior to this point to help rectify some glaring issues, but it was recognized that more needed to be done.
Transgender Harassment & Bigotry
"I identify as an attack helicopter" comments, or other similar comments meant to mock or make fun of transgender users/people are not allowed. These type of comments are considered transphobic in nature, and only serve to belittle or demean the efforts of what is an important decision for many folks. These type of comments are subject to warnings and/or bans.
Related to this, it appears some users are unclear where the ruling stands regarding calling transgenderism a "mental disorder." For those confused on the matter, calling transgenderism a mental disorder is considered trolling, and will result in a ban. It has been bannable for some time, but based off feedback some did not appear aware of this.
Similarly, intentionally misusing a transgender or nonbinary user's pronouns after being corrected and asked to use the proper ones, is subject to a ban for bigotry.
"Trap" Threads
"Trap" threads are no longer allowed on the boards. These are threads designed to bait users into announcing sexual attraction under false pretenses as a way to mock transgender people. Threads made in this vein will be removed, and users who repeatedly make such threads will be subject to warnings and bans as necessary.
"I am now gay" Threads and Posts
"I am now gay" threads and posts are no longer allowed. This is really only an issue on a few select areas of the forums, but it is being done to the point of becoming problematic and offensive to others. These types of threads/posts will be removed on sight. If a user habitually makes these type of threads or posts, they will be warned and subject to a trolling ban as necessary.
Comments Regarding or Referring to Intellectual Disability
Up to this point, use of the word "retard" in a pejorative manner towards other users has been prohibited. Upon careful observation and through user feedback however, it is apparent that this rule needs to be a bit more extensive, as some have opted for its loose wording to make similarly-inappropriate comments on a regular basis.
Going forward, all use of "retard" and similarly related terms in a pejorative fashion may not be used to reference people, groups or other objects/things. Using similar or equivalent terms to "retard" ("autistic," "r-word." etc.) in order to make disparaging remarks about a user is not allowed, and subject to ban.
Racism, Xenophobia, and General Bigoted Comments
Within the TOS, we have guidelines that state posts that are racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory are not permitted on the IGN boards. Gross generalizations, stereotypes, demeaning speech/slurs pertaining to race or gender are not allowed, and are subject to a warning and/or ban. Up to this point, we felt this was enough to cover a large portion of the issues on the forums. Through user discussions and feedback however, it appears that much more needs to be done, particularly regarding more subtle forms of racism, as in comments beyond the obvious slurs or blatant hate speech that would lead to a significant ban.
Xenophobic Comments
One particular issue we've noticed is that xenophobic comments have been on the rise in recent months/years. Users are insulted or attacked based off their country of origin, or people make unfair generalizations and comments towards them, simply because of what country they came from. As a global community, these kind of responses are completely inappropriate, and have no place on the boards, even if meant in a joking manner. We have forums here filled with International users, and they have just as much right to be here as everyone else. This needs to be respected on all fronts. Xenophobic comments or insults towards international users are not tolerated here, and making these kind of comments will subject users to warnings and bans.
Subtle Racism, Dogwhistles, etc.
Issues with racism extend beyond xenophobia however. Inflammatory or demeaning language and attempts to create a hostile environment for a person or group are strictly against the rules. Mature discussions about race, much like gender, orientation and other topics, is of course allowed and necessary to foster a quality board environment. However, it's also important to realize that some may try to use these discussions to foster a certain agenda, ones led by dogwhistles and "studies/beliefs" that fall in line with specific hate groups. People who post studies arguing in favor/against one race's intelligence over another, or posting violent crime results to use as a means of proclaiming one group of people as more violent than the other. There are numerous potential ways these issues can manifest, but the end result is the same -- they lead to racism and bigotry, and that is not something we want to be a part of this board culture.
Handling These Issues Going Forward
Handling these type of issues is no simple matter. Originally we were not going to address handling this type of content here because there has been evidence that users in the past have gone out of their way to "game" the system, and find just the right line to stay at to avoid getting banned for racist or bigoted posting. However, it is evident based off some of the feedback regarding the latest rule revisions, that a more prominent message is necessary.
We are taking several steps to help combat this type of more subtle racism that occurs on the boards. For one, ban progressions and times for racist comments or threads has been increased. It took way too many bans for a user posting racist content to reach the point where the bans started holding consequence. Going forward it will start having a more dramatic effect, quicker, in an effort to hopefully make people second guess posting bigoted content.
We're also going to paying more attention to the type of content being posted, to watch out more for the aforementioned "studies" that lead to bigoted rhetoric, and other dogwhistles that can lead to problematic generalizations and comments. Additionally, the moderators are implementing internal policies that allow us to better gauge problematic users. Some users have been skirting a thin line for a long time on the boards, again taking advantage of their perceived understanding of just how much they can say to "get by." We're going to be moving that line. Users who attempt to game the system will receive warnings when we see what they are doing, and if they continue on that route they will be subject to bans, up to and including permanent bans. A new system is being put in place to help us better watch for, moderate, and ultimately if necessary, remove these users from the forums.
We want the forums to be a welcoming place for all, and that is no easy process. Ultimately however, we want a place where the userbase knows they can post freely without such prejudices running rampant, a place where if they do see a problem, they can report it and help stomp it out, to make this a better overall community for everyone.
There's been a lot of discussion and thought put into how to revise and update board rules the last few weeks. Clearly there's a lot of important things that need to be addressed. We implemented a few fixes early on, and shored up moderation needs on a few boards. However, to get down to all the issues and concerns addressed took time and a lot of thorough discussion. Fortunately, I think we have made some changes that will help going forward.
Special thanks once again to those who took the time to provide thoughts and feedback regarding their impressions on the board. They were very useful in helping us come to decisions on some key areas of focus.
Without further ado --
Board Rule Updates & Revisions
Sexist, Misogynistic or Explicit Comments and Images
A few years back, we attempted to create a new set of guidelines regarding sexism, harassment, and sexually explicit content. To a degree these changes were effective, and reduced some glaring problems we found regularly occurring on the boards. However, based off discussions in the years following the implementation of these rules, it is evident that more needs to be done. With that in mind, we have added the following rule and guideline changes.
Explicit Sexual Content/Descriptions
Thread titles or posts expressing excessive sexual commentary or descriptions towards another person (real or fictional) will be removed, and banned if it becomes habitual. This includes (but is not limited to) explicit commentary involving bodily fluids, masturbation, oral, anal, and penetrative sex. Discussion of sex remains acceptable on the boards, and people are welcome to express their attractions (within legal reason) as they see fit, but we want to reiterate that the discussion needs to be handled in a mature manner (we actually already have a TOS rule for this).
Sexually Demeaning/Abusive Language
As mentioned earlier, a few years ago we announced new sexism guidelines for the boards. We remain committed to adhering to and moderating based off those guidelines. However, as an extension of those rules, we also are going to extend our definition for "sexually demeaning and abusive language" to include general discussion and commentary towards those outside of the boards, not just users.
There have been a lot of demeaning or flat out inappropriate comments on the boards relating to sex workers and folks who use sites like OnlyFans to generate money or make a living. Calling people in this line of work "whores," "sluts," or other similar type of terms will no longer be allowed on the forums. Comments in this vein will be removed, and if it becomes a habitual issue for users, warnings and bans will be issued as necessary.
Cropped Porn Icons
As a reminder, cropped porn icons are not allowed. Users discovered to be using icons cropped from porn will be asked to remove them, and if they fail to comply will be banned until they comply.
Incendiary Political Language
Another area that has seen a number of changes in recent years is our stance towards political commentary. Given the general nature of politics it's no surprise that these type of topics tend to get heated, and often lead to bans, possibly moreso than any subject matter on the boards. While we do not want to eliminate political discussion from the boards, we do want to attempt to maintain a more civil form of discourse. In the past, we have removed derogatory/inflammatory terms for political parties such as "libtard," "cuckservative," and other similar terms. There has been a recent uptick in usage of some of these terms however, so let this serve as a reminder that they are still not allowed to be used, and habitual usage can potentially result in a ban.
In addition to reinforcing moderation of the previous terms, we are also expanding the rule a bit. When users use terms like "Communist" for Democrats, or "Fascist/Nazi" for Republicans to dismiss differing views instead of holding open discussion, legitimate discussions get stalled and often become more hostile and disruptive for general board discourse (not to mention, it often leads to bans). These type of posts and/or threads will be removed going forward, and users will be subject to ban if it becomes a repeated issue.
"Babe Thread" Etiquette
There has been a lot of discussion recently regarding the "Babe Threads" that are popular on many of the general discussion boards. While we want to allow users the opportunity to celebrate their favorite celebrities/personalities/models, etc., we also recognize that these type of threads can lead to both imagery and commentary that can make for an uncomfortable board environment for some. As such, we want to try and clarify some details on how these type of threads should be handled.
Lewd/Crass/Descriptive Sexual Comments
Much like within the general boards as a whole, overly lewd/crass/descriptive sexual comments have become a major issue in these type of threads. Saying you find a model hot is not a problem, but the overtly descriptive and downright explicit manner some decide to express their interest is something that needs to stop. Such comments will be removed and are potentially subject to ban.
Regarding Images
As for the type of images posted in these threads themselves, leaked or hacked images of celebrities during private moments and done without the person's consent are not allowed. Paparazzi pictures are allowed, so long as they are taken in public and not obscene. In terms of where to draw the line on appropriate pictures, the general rule of thumb should be that if an image would not be suitable for a PG-13 movie or TV show, it shouldn't be on the boards.
In line with the above general rule of thumb, we are lifting the ban on posting images where nipples are visible underneath a shirt (think Jennifer Aniston on Friends). Posting actual nipples or areola remains against the TOS and will continue to be subject to ban.
Onlyfans Content/Information
OnlyFans has become a popular destination in recent years. However, much of the content from it is not compatible with the IGN Boards TOS. With that in mind, linking to NSFW images or directing users to an individual's OnlyFans page is not allowed, and subject to ban.
Harassment and Bigotry
Another area that we've received a lot of feedback on in recent months is regarding the treatment and commentary made towards LGBTQ+ users. Above all else, we want to make it very clear that harassment and bigotry towards LGBTQ+ users will not be tolerated here. We've made some adjustments prior to this point to help rectify some glaring issues, but it was recognized that more needed to be done.
Transgender Harassment & Bigotry
"I identify as an attack helicopter" comments, or other similar comments meant to mock or make fun of transgender users/people are not allowed. These type of comments are considered transphobic in nature, and only serve to belittle or demean the efforts of what is an important decision for many folks. These type of comments are subject to warnings and/or bans.
Related to this, it appears some users are unclear where the ruling stands regarding calling transgenderism a "mental disorder." For those confused on the matter, calling transgenderism a mental disorder is considered trolling, and will result in a ban. It has been bannable for some time, but based off feedback some did not appear aware of this.
Similarly, intentionally misusing a transgender or nonbinary user's pronouns after being corrected and asked to use the proper ones, is subject to a ban for bigotry.
"Trap" Threads
"Trap" threads are no longer allowed on the boards. These are threads designed to bait users into announcing sexual attraction under false pretenses as a way to mock transgender people. Threads made in this vein will be removed, and users who repeatedly make such threads will be subject to warnings and bans as necessary.
"I am now gay" Threads and Posts
"I am now gay" threads and posts are no longer allowed. This is really only an issue on a few select areas of the forums, but it is being done to the point of becoming problematic and offensive to others. These types of threads/posts will be removed on sight. If a user habitually makes these type of threads or posts, they will be warned and subject to a trolling ban as necessary.
Comments Regarding or Referring to Intellectual Disability
Up to this point, use of the word "retard" in a pejorative manner towards other users has been prohibited. Upon careful observation and through user feedback however, it is apparent that this rule needs to be a bit more extensive, as some have opted for its loose wording to make similarly-inappropriate comments on a regular basis.
Going forward, all use of "retard" and similarly related terms in a pejorative fashion may not be used to reference people, groups or other objects/things. Using similar or equivalent terms to "retard" ("autistic," "r-word." etc.) in order to make disparaging remarks about a user is not allowed, and subject to ban.
Racism, Xenophobia, and General Bigoted Comments
Within the TOS, we have guidelines that state posts that are racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory are not permitted on the IGN boards. Gross generalizations, stereotypes, demeaning speech/slurs pertaining to race or gender are not allowed, and are subject to a warning and/or ban. Up to this point, we felt this was enough to cover a large portion of the issues on the forums. Through user discussions and feedback however, it appears that much more needs to be done, particularly regarding more subtle forms of racism, as in comments beyond the obvious slurs or blatant hate speech that would lead to a significant ban.
Xenophobic Comments
One particular issue we've noticed is that xenophobic comments have been on the rise in recent months/years. Users are insulted or attacked based off their country of origin, or people make unfair generalizations and comments towards them, simply because of what country they came from. As a global community, these kind of responses are completely inappropriate, and have no place on the boards, even if meant in a joking manner. We have forums here filled with International users, and they have just as much right to be here as everyone else. This needs to be respected on all fronts. Xenophobic comments or insults towards international users are not tolerated here, and making these kind of comments will subject users to warnings and bans.
Subtle Racism, Dogwhistles, etc.
Issues with racism extend beyond xenophobia however. Inflammatory or demeaning language and attempts to create a hostile environment for a person or group are strictly against the rules. Mature discussions about race, much like gender, orientation and other topics, is of course allowed and necessary to foster a quality board environment. However, it's also important to realize that some may try to use these discussions to foster a certain agenda, ones led by dogwhistles and "studies/beliefs" that fall in line with specific hate groups. People who post studies arguing in favor/against one race's intelligence over another, or posting violent crime results to use as a means of proclaiming one group of people as more violent than the other. There are numerous potential ways these issues can manifest, but the end result is the same -- they lead to racism and bigotry, and that is not something we want to be a part of this board culture.
Handling These Issues Going Forward
Handling these type of issues is no simple matter. Originally we were not going to address handling this type of content here because there has been evidence that users in the past have gone out of their way to "game" the system, and find just the right line to stay at to avoid getting banned for racist or bigoted posting. However, it is evident based off some of the feedback regarding the latest rule revisions, that a more prominent message is necessary.
We are taking several steps to help combat this type of more subtle racism that occurs on the boards. For one, ban progressions and times for racist comments or threads has been increased. It took way too many bans for a user posting racist content to reach the point where the bans started holding consequence. Going forward it will start having a more dramatic effect, quicker, in an effort to hopefully make people second guess posting bigoted content.
We're also going to paying more attention to the type of content being posted, to watch out more for the aforementioned "studies" that lead to bigoted rhetoric, and other dogwhistles that can lead to problematic generalizations and comments. Additionally, the moderators are implementing internal policies that allow us to better gauge problematic users. Some users have been skirting a thin line for a long time on the boards, again taking advantage of their perceived understanding of just how much they can say to "get by." We're going to be moving that line. Users who attempt to game the system will receive warnings when we see what they are doing, and if they continue on that route they will be subject to bans, up to and including permanent bans. A new system is being put in place to help us better watch for, moderate, and ultimately if necessary, remove these users from the forums.
We want the forums to be a welcoming place for all, and that is no easy process. Ultimately however, we want a place where the userbase knows they can post freely without such prejudices running rampant, a place where if they do see a problem, they can report it and help stomp it out, to make this a better overall community for everyone.
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