Wikipedia:Administrators' guide/Blocking: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 20:39, 29 October 2021

Revision as of 20:40, 29 October 2021

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Blocking may be used in other situations (not just the above), where particular situations are addressed by more specific policies dealing with particular issues.

Blocks sometimes are used to allow discussions (such as AfD discussions) to proceed without interruption. The block length usually is usually based on how long you think the block needs to be in place to protect the encyclopedia. '''31 hours''' is the standard duration for most blocks. Edit warring blocks (including [[WP:3RR]]) are usually 24 hours (some administrators prefer 31 hours). Registered sockpuppet accounts receive indefinite blocks, however, IP sockpuppet accounts only receive temporary blocks. Discussion blocks might last long enough to conclude the discussion. If you use [[WP:TW|Twinkle]] to block, it will automatically supply the standard durations based on the preset chosen.

Blocks are most often used after a user continues to vandalize despite repeated warnings. Such blocks generally are imposed when a user continues to vandalize after a final warning (corresponding to a level 4 warning template) but this is a guideline, not a hard and fast rule. Template warnings are often used but are not required. [[Wikipedia:Single-purpose account|Single purpose accounts]] or vandalism-only accounts may warrant blocking with fewer warnings. In cases of gross or extreme vandalism a warning is not needed at all, such as in the case of promotion of hate and racism, or uploading [[shock site|shock images]]. Some users will deserve only one warning, others more warnings. Decide on the severity of the behavior and the likelihood of salvaging a good user. No hard and fast rule will do; use your good judgment.