The community guidelines have been updated to version 3.2, effective immediately. These changes reflect feedback gathered over the past two months and address emerging challenges on the platform. All members are expected to familiarize themselves with the updated rules.

Stricter Marketplace Rules

• Vendors must now maintain a minimum 4.0 trust score to list new products. Scores below this threshold will be flagged for review.
• All listings over $200 require a verified escrow transaction. Direct payment outside escrow for high-value items is now a bannable offense.
• Vendor verification renewals are now required every 90 days instead of 180 days. This ensures active vendors remain accountable.
• Product images must include a timestamped proof-of-possession photo. Stock photos or manufacturer images alone are no longer sufficient.

Enhanced Privacy Protections

• Direct messages are now end-to-end encrypted by default. No staff member can read your DMs unless you explicitly report a message for moderation review.
• IP logging has been permanently disabled on the instance. Session data is stored for 72 hours for security purposes only and is then purged automatically.
• Users may now opt into anonymous posting in designated threads, hiding their username from public view while retaining moderator visibility for accountability.

New Reporting System

The old ticket-based reporting system has been replaced with an in-line report button available on every post and reply. Reports are now triaged automatically by severity and routed to the appropriate moderation queue. You will receive a notification when your report has been actioned. Repeat false reporters will have their reporting privileges suspended.

The full updated guidelines are available in the sidebar. If you have questions or concerns about any of these changes, this thread is open for discussion. We will be monitoring feedback closely over the next two weeks.