How to Avoid Being Flagged in an Online Community

It's no fun being flagged on an Internet website. But what does it mean and how can you avoid it? Being flagged, simply means that another user has marked your article because they feel you have violated the terms of service on a particular website. Or, the content you have posted or an email is offensive. Here are some simple ways to avoid being flagged in an online community.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Internet
• Website

1. Look over and study the terms of service of the website you wish to join and participate in. These vary greatly depending upon the nature of the site. Know up front what posts, articles, photos, videos and general content are acceptable. For example, are you allowed to post links to sites elsewhere? Can you promote your own material?
2. Find out what is needed to participate. Join the site(s) you feel comfortable with and feel your way around for a few weeks. Find out what type of folks hang out there and if you feel safe.
3. Read what others have to say on the websites of which you are a member. Are they having flagging problems as well? Do an article search about flags, flagging and moderation. Read any web chats that the moderators post. Keep reading your emails on changes and acceptable use policies.
4. Have fun on the website, but be cautious of using actual names or posting material you do not own. All websites have some form of copyright violation policy. Some are more strict than others. For example, do not share photos you found on the Internet unless you document your source. Do not plagiarize material. This reputation may follow you to other websites and your account may be closed without warning.

Tips & Warnings

• Being flagged does not automatically mean your account will be closed nor does it mean there is any truth to the allegation. It can have different meanings entirely depending on which website you visit.
• Know that there will always be those who will flag you regardless of content because that is the nature of the Internet. It is not always user-friendly.