Chat Rules

Rules on Speech

Explanation: Flooding (posting a message many times), scrolling (posting many times but with one or few characters per message), and messages with too many characters slow down the chat rooms for everybody. Because of this, a violation of these rules will result in the offender being kicked from the chat rooms. Typing in all or excessive CAPS is annoying. It doesn't necessarily slow down the chat rooms, but it does clutter the chat windows. A warning is issued to offenders of this rule.

Rules on Content

Explanation: Cybersex is considered rude and offensive to many people. Vulgar nicknames are also considered rude and offensive. Because of this, a violation of these rules will result in the offender being kicked from the chat rooms. Using certain vulgar words is common among some people, but not all. Please respect fellow chatters and keep the bad language to a minimum. Excessive bad language will result in a warning.

Unwritten Chat Rules

Just as in real life, the Internet has certain things that you do and certain things that you don't do. For those of you that are relatively new to chatting, or the Internet in general, reading the following will help you understand chat etiquette and improve your ability to communicate with others.

Don't ask to be an moderator

When you enter a room do not ask for moderator status. When asked, the moderator will be less likely to give you this privilege.

Don't join chat rooms and then leave without saying something.

Do not join a chat room and leave, or hop chat rooms. It is considered impolite.

Don't idle or lurk in a chat room.

When in a chat room, participate in the conversation. If you are going to be away from your computer for a short period of time, be sure to tell the other users. If you are a beginner, be polite and say, "I am new to chatting, may I watch quietly for a few minutes until I'm comfortable?"

Don't be impatient for responses.

If a user is slow to respond to you during a conversation, be patient and wait. Keep in mind this is a person and may have engagements other than the computer.

Don't use excessive colors/ASCII art without knowing chat room policies.

Be sure to check with an moderator before using large multi-line ASCII art or excessive colors. In some chat rooms it could be considered a flood and you risk being kicked out.

When entering a smaller chat room, ask if you are welcome there.

When you enter a chat room that has just a few users, ask if it is a private chat room, and if you are welcome there.

Be friendly, polite, and considerate.

Just as in real life, if you treat others properly and respect their opinions, they will treat you the same.