Banned. Error or Misunderstanding?

[HeartOfTheDarkness]

I tried logging on a couple of hours ago, but I got a message telling me that I was banned. A little confused, I sent an email asking what the reason was for my ban. I didn't get a reply, but after a few hours I was able to log back on.

I was just wonder what was up with that. Was it some sort of bug? Was it just a misunderstanding and I got banned by accident? Did I actually do something bad and I got banned, very briefly? Let me know, I wasn't sure whether this was something I should bring to your attention.

 

[darkangel76]

Were you trying to log in via a mobile device and/or via a wifi of some sort? Bet you my life you were! Chances are you were an unfortunate victim who got caught in the crossfire of an IP ban. This unfortunately does occur from time to time as we do have to IP ban occasionally, though such drastic measures are reserved for mega spammers, repeat ban evaders and super super super hostile members that are also more than likely ban evaders as well.

Also, to clarify..... bans are a LAST RESORT nearly all the time. There aren't very many instances in which you'll be banned without warning or some kind of process. With the recent revamping of the site rules, there are only TWO instances in which a member can be banned without warning.

1) Evidence is found showing that a member is a jailbaiter (ie, that the member is under the age of 18).
2) The member is a spammer, in which case the account is also typically deleted and the IP banned (though IP banning ONLY occurs if it's a mega spammer, not a casual spammer).

If you are a member that breaks a rule or causes issues, etc. you'll still go through a process of some kind before a banning is instated. It's just how it is. We build up histories and track records of members and what not before 'going there', typically issuing warnings--first informal, then official--before we bring out the 'big guns'. We also try to mediate and discuss things. You know, work with them. So banning is NOT something that is done all willy nilly on a whim just because a freakin' button can be pressed. There is a process, all sides heard, warnings given. It's rare for there not to be.

Hope this clarifies things.

 

[HeartOfTheDarkness]

Oh, I see. At least I understand now. I was actually starting to get paranoid when I saw the message. I didn't know if I offended someone and they reported me, but I never received a warning. Then I knew I was of age, I'll scan my license if I have to. And I haven't been spamming, or at least I don't think I have. I just respond to my threads, as well as reply to one or two other threads every now and then.

And yes, I was going on my phone. I tend to do that when I can't get on my laptop and I have nothing to do at work. So I'm assuming that coming online using my phone is not recommended?