User:Evkl/Username policy

This page is a proposed policy for Bulbapedia.

Please discuss the proposal and suggest possible changes on the article's talk page.

Bulbapedia's username policy is the set of rules by which usernames must abide. Failure to abide by these rules may result in a ban.

Contents

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• (Return to top)
• Restrictions on usernames
  • Obscenity and insults
  • Confusing usernames
  • Impersonation
  • Relation to Bulbagarden
• Changing usernames

Restrictions on usernames

Obscenity and insults

Any obscene words in a username are grounds for an immediate block. Bulbapedia does not maintain a list of obscene words, but if a reasonable person would consider it obscene, you will be banned. If you have any doubt, during registration, that your username could be obscene, choose another. Usernames that insult people, websites, or other institutions will also be banned.

Confusing usernames

If you by design choose a name that is deliberately very similar to a current Bulbapedia contributor, a feature of the software, or anything else that could cause confusion, we may permanently blocking you or force you to change the username. Names such as "Administrator", "sysop", "bot", etc. are not allowed; nor would "BULB4GARDEN" (with a "4" instead of an "A"). If someone is using what you consider your username, you may add a number or some other form of distinction; this is not considered a confusing username or impersonation.

Using exact Pokémon names, or a visually similar name, is also grounds for a permanent block; this helps avoid confusion. This rule grandfathers in those that had used an exact or similarly spelled Pokémon name before the name was added to the blacklist. Using numbers, or other forms of distinctions, are allowed, granted that it does not look exactly like the Pokémon name. For example, Bulbasaur123 is okay but BuIbasaur (with a capital i) is not.

Impersonation

Creating a username that is a clear impersonation of a celebrity or notable corporation is unacceptable. Names such as "Beyonce," "Microsoft," etc. are not tolerated and will be blocked.

Relation to Bulbagarden

If your username or IP is banned on Bulbagarden Forums, you will be banned from Bulbapedia upon registration. Appeals based on this circumstance will be forwarded directly to the Bulbagarden forum administrators; Bulbapedia simply follows the ban-list of Bulbagarden Forums and is not responsible for enforcing this rule.

Changing usernames

Leadership Board members can change usernames upon request, but this is generally discouraged; it can cause confusion and is taxing on server resources. A valid reason must be provided and will be considered by the individual receiving your request. Repeated name changes are not allowed.