User:Ryan Postlethwaite/Admin coaching/J-stan/Tasks/Blocking Essay

Blocking is definitely a controversial area, and Administrators should use great discretion. We are instructed to assume good faith and to not bite newbies, while at the same time preventing users from harming wikipedia.

Blocks are implemented for a few major reasons. One of these is protection, which includes things like blocking for personal or legal threats or attacks, disclosing to the public personal information about another (which may also result in Oversight users permanently deleting the material), violating copyrights, and blocking compromised accounts. These criteria allow for the blocking of users who might bring harm to the project and its other users. Another reason is for disruptive editing, which includes vandalism, incivility, harassment, persistently ignoring WP:BLP, spamming and blatant self-promoting, sockpuppetry, and persistently ignoring rules in a way that harms the project (which would be decided by neutral third-parties). However, the criteria in this list along with the list at WP:BP isn't exhaustive, and other actions may warrant a block. Admins are given the rule of thumb: "when in doubt, do not block", and consult more experienced admins. If a controversial block is made, it might be wise to make a note of it on WP:AN.

Warnings are very important in the blocking process. I have read comments from admins who firmly state that they will not block unless the user has a full warning set. There are five levels of warnings (1-4, and then the separate 4im), and should be used correctly. Before a block, we should try to instruct new users about what is acceptable and what isn't. If they don't pay attention, warn them of what will happen if they keep up these editing patterns through warnings. Eventually, a block may be in order.

Username-related blocks are pretty straightforward. The software disallows usernames too similar to other Wikipedians. Confusing usernames are those that are just plain confusing and/or excessively long or random. Misleading usernames include those that refer to an official position for the Wikimedia Foundation (administrator, bureaucrat, etc.), a well known person (living or formerly so), or one referring to bot status. Disruptive or Offensive usernames are those that could be considered a form of vandalism. Promotional usernames advertise companies, groups, or just email addresses or websites (though if created before January 1, 2007, it isn't prohibited). All of these reasons are grounds for blocking, though in less straightforward cases, perhaps guidance from other admins could be solicited, or a post could be made on the noticeboard.

In general, cool-down blocks aren't allowed. However, WP:3RR violation blocks could be considered to be for the purpose of cooling down the offending user. A 24-hour block may be in order, if the user has been properly notified of the revert rule. Longer blocks may result from repeated violations.