By connecting to the SynergyIRC network, you agree to these rules. The rules are subject to change at any time, and it is the responsibility of the user to keep up to date with the rules.

Spamming is considered as sending pointless and annoying messages, usually for the purpose of advertising. Examples of spam advertising are:

Advertising channels: Randomly messaging users and channels advertising a channel is not allowed.

Websites: Advertising websites by randomly and/or mass messages is prohibited.

IRC servers/networks: Advertising other IRC servers and networks is not allowed, however, you are permitted to place a message with the server address in a channel topic if you have moved servers or similar.

Malicious software/URLs: Spreading around links to sites with malicious software (malware, adware, etc) or shock sites is prohibited and is an easy way to get banned.

Services are provided through the network services server to register nicknames and channels (through NickServ and ChanServ respectively). Nicknames and channel names are offered on a first come, first serve basis, and will not be turned over to another user without just cause. However, network staff does reserve the right to disallow and reserve certain nicknames and channel names.

Attempting to steal a nickname or channel name from another user is not allowed. All logins to nicknames and channels, as well as password changes and email changes are monitored, and you will be caught if attempting to do so. All changes caused by a user attempting to do such a thing will be reversed and punishment will be at the discretion of the staff.

Intentionally trying to evade either a channel or network ban is prohibited. This includes using a BNC (IRC bouncer), open or closed proxy, or cycling your Internet connection to obtain a new IP address. Doing so in a channel ban situation can ultimately result in a network ban. Evading a network ban can end up in action taken against you via your ISP.

Connecting to the network via a BNC and closed proxy is permitted, however, you must not attempt to avoid channel or network bans, or otherwise break any rules.

Connecting via open proxies is not permitted due to the potential for a spam/botnet attack. Users connecting via open proxies will be sent a message regarding it and killed from the server.

Friendly bots are permitted and encouraged to connect to the network. These bots are ones that performs legitimate (within the rules) tasks automatically. Heavy advertising of a bot, however, is not allowed, and falls into the spam category.

Botnets are formed by computers infected with trojan viruses. These computers launch bots that connect to a network and sit in channels, waiting to infect other users and log keystrokes, thus gaining very sensitive information (credit card numbers, social security numbers, etc). They are also used for DDoS (Denial of Service) attacks, in which the server is flooded with tons of useless connections, which uses up resources and makes it hard for legitimate connections to occur. Attempting to host a botnet on our network is strictly prohibited. These bots will be banned and further investigation/action will occur.

Any other activity that is not permitted by any applicable law is not prohibited on our network (such as breaking copyright laws).

Punishment for breaking the rules is at the discretion of the staff. Most likely, you will be warned the first time, then temporarily banned from the network before being permanently banned. It is not our wish or intention to ban users, however, there are rules that must be followed in order for everyone to enjoy chatting on the network.