Help:Blocked

Welcome to the Blocked page! This page will guide you through common reasons why a user might be blocked from editing or contributing to this wiki, including issues that may arise for logged-out users, the use of our automated bot system (nUSA-AUTO), and other common causes. If you've been blocked, this article can help you understand why and what you can do to resolve the issue.

1. Why Was I Blocked?

There are many potential reasons why a user might get blocked from editing or contributing to a page on this wiki. Below are the most common causes:

1.1 Vandalism or Disruptive Behavior

One of the most common reasons for a block is vandalism. Vandalism includes, but is not limited to:

• Adding offensive, inappropriate, or inflammatory language.
• Inserting irrelevant, disruptive, or non-constructive content.
• Damaging or deleting valid content without a valid reason.
• Introducing false or misleading information with the intent to deceive or disrupt.

If you are blocked for vandalism, the block will often be temporary, depending on the severity of the action. Continued disruptive behavior may result in a longer block or even a permanent ban.

1.2 Repeated or Severe Violations of Content Policies

Every user is expected to follow the content policies and guidelines of this wiki. Violating these policies repeatedly or severely can lead to being blocked from editing. Some content policy violations include:

• Inserting original research or unverified claims without credible sources.
• Using inappropriate or unencyclopedic tone in articles.
• Adding personal opinions or subjective statements as factual information.
• Spamming external links or advertisements.
• Failing to adhere to the wiki's formatting or organizational rules.

If your edits repeatedly violate these policies, the wiki administrators may decide to block you to prevent further disruption.

1.3 Edit Wars

An edit war occurs when multiple users repeatedly make conflicting changes to the same page without reaching a consensus. This can lead to a block for users who are involved in the war, particularly if they are making disruptive or persistent changes. If you are involved in an edit war:

• Try to resolve the dispute on the page’s Talk page rather than continually re-editing the page.
• Seek consensus with other users and admins before making major changes.
• Avoid reverting edits repeatedly unless necessary for maintaining the integrity of the page.

Edit wars are counterproductive and can result in a block for continued disruptive behavior.

1.4 Bypassing Blocks or Restrictions

If you attempt to bypass an active block by creating a new account or using a different IP address, this may result in an extended or permanent block. Attempts to bypass a block are considered a serious violation of wiki rules.

To resolve this issue:

• If you believe the block was applied in error, contact an administrator for clarification.
• Do not attempt to circumvent the block by creating a new account.

1.5 Use of Automated Bot System (nUSA-AUTO)

This wiki uses an automated bot system (nUSA-AUTO) that helps maintain content quality. The bot automatically reverts edits that it flags as damaging or inappropriate. If your edit is reverted by the bot, it may be because the bot detected one or more of the following issues:

• The content you added was deemed irrelevant or out of context.
• The edit included links to spammy or unreliable websites.
• The formatting was inconsistent with the rest of the page.
• The edit contained duplicate or unnecessary information.
• The edit violated content policies, such as inserting unverified claims or personal opinions.

If the bot has reverted your edits and you believe it was a mistake, you can try making the changes again after reviewing the [Content Policies] and ensuring your edit adheres to the wiki's guidelines. You can also contact an admin to discuss the situation.

1.6 Logged-Out Users and Anonymous Editing

If you are logged out or editing anonymously, you might face certain restrictions or limitations that could result in being blocked. For example:

• Temporary Block for Anonymity: Some wikis block anonymous or IP-based users to prevent spam or disruptive edits. If you're making anonymous edits and being blocked, the best way to avoid this is to create an account and log in.
• Logged-Out User Edits: When logged out, the wiki may impose restrictions that limit your ability to make certain types of edits. This is to prevent spam or unauthorized changes. Logging into your account can help resolve these issues.
• IP Address Blocking: In some cases, blocks are placed on specific IP addresses due to previous vandalism or disruptive behavior associated with that address. If you are using a shared network or public computer, you might be affected by an IP block, even if you did nothing wrong.

To avoid being blocked due to anonymous edits:

• Create an account and log in before editing. This will give you more credibility and prevent restrictions on your IP address.
• If you're editing from a public or shared network, consider using your personal account to avoid accidental association with past vandalism.

1.7 Spamming or Advertising

If you add spam links, advertisements, or promotional content, you will likely be blocked. This includes:

• Adding links to unrelated or low-quality websites.
• Promoting personal blogs, businesses, or external products.
• Using the wiki to advertise any service or product without prior consent.

Wiki editors are expected to contribute meaningful and relevant content to the community. If you want to promote something, make sure it is directly related to the content of the wiki and not spam.

1.8 Disrespecting Other Users

Being rude, disrespectful, or disruptive toward other users can lead to a block. Personal attacks, harassment, and general negativity are not tolerated. If you find yourself in a disagreement with another user, always handle the situation professionally and calmly. To prevent blocks:

• Be polite and respectful when engaging with other users, even if you disagree.
• Avoid personal insults or inflammatory language.
• If you have a disagreement, discuss it civilly on the Talk page.

2. How Long Will I Be Blocked?

The length of a block depends on the severity and nature of the issue. Some common block durations include:

• Short-Term Block (24 hours to 1 week): Typically issued for minor infractions or first-time offenses, such as engaging in an edit war or making disruptive edits.
• Medium-Term Block (1 week to 1 month): Issued for repeat offenses or more severe violations, such as persistent vandalism or ignoring content policies.
• Permanent Block: For serious or repeated violations, such as attempting to bypass previous blocks, sustained vandalism, or violating fundamental community rules.

3. What Can I Do If I'm Blocked?

If you’ve been blocked, here are steps you can take:

3.1 Review the Reason for the Block

Check the block message or the "Contributions" page to understand why the block was applied. You can also check the edit history to see if your edits were reverted by the automated bot (nUSA-AUTO). If you are unsure about the reason for the block, contact an administrator for clarification.

3.2 Contact an Administrator

If you believe the block was unjustified or if you want to appeal the block, you can contact an administrator. Be polite and respectful when making your appeal, and provide as much information as possible about your case.

To contact an admin:

• Open an issue on the Talk page of the page where you were blocked.
• Provide details about the block and why you think it should be lifted.
• If the block was due to an error or misunderstanding, explain your actions and show that you are committed to following the wiki’s rules.

3.3 Wait Out the Block

If your block is temporary, you can wait until it expires. During this time, review the wiki’s content policies and guidelines to ensure you don't repeat the same mistakes in the future.

4. How to Avoid Getting Blocked

To avoid being blocked, follow these general guidelines:

• Respect other users: Be polite and professional in your interactions with others.
• Follow the content policies: Always ensure your edits align with the wiki’s content standards and guidelines.
• Avoid disruptive behavior: Don’t engage in edit wars, vandalism, or spamming.
• Create an account: If you are editing anonymously, create an account to avoid IP-based restrictions.
• Follow the bot’s feedback: If the nUSA-AUTO bot reverts your edit, check why it was flagged and adjust accordingly.