major policy changes
Oct 6th 2007 02:51:06 pm
In order to improve the safety, fairness, and overall efficiency of Swap-bot, we have implemented a few major policy changes.
Usernames Hellboy Animated: Sword of Storms divx
The first thing that you will notice is that we are switching to unique, static usernames to replace the old display names. When you next log into Swap-bot you will be asked to choose a username. Please choose carefully as usernames are unchangeable and will stay with your account forever. After picking your username it will replace your old display name throughout the entire Swap-bot site and you will be able to use it to log into Swap-bot from then on. Usernames may only consist of letters and numbers. Other characters, offensive words, and any HTML or Markdown code are not allowed in usernames. Each person’s username must be unique. We suggest picking a username that is close to your old display name so that other members will be able to easily recognize you.
We know that this change will cause some confusion at first. We are sorry for any inconvenience, but this change is necessary as Swap-bot continues to grow. You might want to list your old display name in your profile somewhere if your username is significantly different. We expect all of our users to pick their new usernames fairly and to not misrepresent their identity in any manner. If you have any problems with the new username feature, please contact us at questions[at]swap-bot.com.
Unique Addresses
From this point on, each individual is only allowed one Swap-bot account. Every new account must have a unique address, as well as a unique username and email address. We have implemented new computerized strategies for assuring the uniqueness of each new user’s identity. We no longer allow (nor did we ever encourage) members to create multiple accounts.
Another major change is that you are no longer able to delete your account. If you wish to leave Swap-bot you can remove all of your address info and terminate Swap-bot communications, but your username and rating history will always be visible. This means that your current Swap-bot account is your only Swap-bot account! You will not be able to scrap it and start a new one if you get bad ratings.
These changes are unfortunately not retroactive. If you currently have multiple accounts you will not be punished. However, if you are observed behaving dishonestly or abusing the system, one, or all, of your accounts may be partially or fully suspended.
If you are a new user who would like to participate in Swap-bot but you have the same address as a current member, you must contact Swap-bot Admins to discuss exceptions to the unique address policy. You can email us at questions[at]swap-bot.com. Family members and roommates currently using Swap-bot with the same address should not be affected by the new policy. However, if you encounter any problems while trying to edit your address please contact us.
Editing Your Profile
You will notice that the links to edit your profile and manage your account have disappeared. You can now edit all of the information related to your account and your visible profile by clicking on the word (edit) next to the Profile link at the top of most Swap-bot pages. The profile editing system has now been divided into a few different categories to make editing a bit simpler. Let us know if you have any questions or encounter any problems.
We know these changes will make Swap-bot more efficient and fair. Thank you for your patience and understanding while they are being implemented.
9 Comments » Categories: New Features
gem on 07 Oct 2007 at 7:04 am #
Personally, I would have realllllly preferred more than a one days notice on the username thing, since I don’t log in everday – and in fact RARELY read the blog – this announcement should have been on the HOME page somewhere … I think had there been a longer lead-time before the change I wouldn’t be so bummed about losing mine because someone else just so happened to randomly logged in before me …
I guess it seems petty or childish to be so peeved about losing something as minor as an internet screen name, but when it’s the one you try to use everywhere so people can “know” it’s you? … stings …
And for what it’s worth, in all the time I’ve swapped here, I’ve never run across anyone with the same “display” name. -shrug-
~ gem ~ <– it’s how I’ve always signed off, and how I’ll always sign off
kristi on 07 Oct 2007 at 6:13 pm #
Quick question regarding addresses – will we be able to edit our current address if it were to change? Meaning if I move, will I have to bug an admin to change it, or are we still able to edit it ourselves? If so, does the database keep track of the old addresses, or only the current ones? I ask in case of people abusing a potential hole of deleting their address on their account, only to start a new one with the same address as before (but there would be no reference since they deleted the address from the old account…) I guess its more of a question to pass on to Travis, and if I’m not making any sense, please tell me (user 8448) and I can elaborate!
tlb27west on 08 Oct 2007 at 3:25 am #
good luck with change
rachel on 08 Oct 2007 at 10:56 am #
Hi all,
Great question kristi! I had to check with Travis to make sure I totally understand how he has everything set up. He tells me that even when a user deletes or changes their address, the original info is still used in the database that we check new accounts against. The old addresses are not visible to anyone, or accessible, but they are not able to be used again for a new account. This may cause a few slight problems if people move into a place where an old swapper used to live, but we can always help new users out and make some exceptions.
Of course, the system is not 100% perfect. I don’t think it ever can be, but we are working to make sure dishonest swappers can’t take advantage of the Swap-bot system. Hopefully these changes will be a huge improvement!
Also, I am sorry for the short notice. We do kinda jump into things here at Swap-bot. We were just very excited about getting the new security-related changes into effect as soon as possible. If anyone has any trouble or problems with selecting your new username, please write to me. We can work something out!
myrrhmaid on 08 Oct 2007 at 12:32 pm #
This is a GREAT news! I like to know that we have more security (which insures we don’t get burned) on the swaps! Thanks for setting this up. I recently had a swap where a newbie signed up long enough to get profile/partnered then deleted his acct. and burned my swap participant with a no-send. I angeled the swap but this will happen a lot less now, I’m sure.
Thanks for having our backs! Great Job Rachel & Travis!
kristi on 09 Oct 2007 at 3:51 pm #
Excellent to hear! Its reassuring that you (plural!) have thought these thing out in advance before implementation, and while is a few circumstances (college dorm addresses, apartment complexes, vacation time-share homes, or ) there is small potential for an address to be re-used by another swapper, its great to know that you are open to hear if such a situation arises, rather than assuming everything to be static! We appreciate all your time and energy into your hobby that has branched out for many to enjoy. =)
maggot (was boatingbelle) on 13 Oct 2007 at 11:45 am #
I don’t really see how changing screen names can make any difference. I changed mine as instructed but would rather have kept my original name.
Jolee on 29 Jan 2008 at 12:01 pm #
I’m new here. I do hope I have everything correct.
cecia83 on 30 Jan 2008 at 5:17 am #
hi! I’m new in this community and in scrapbooking.
kisses