[Working draft]Introduction / Tutorial Island for New Users

SuF · Jan 25, 2013

Current Version of Thread:

Welcome to Sythe.org!

Sythe.org is a large virtual goods trading forum. Here, you can conduct trades for real and virtual goods with other members.
There are a wide variety of off-topic sections where you can discuss or even request help regarding anything from nutriton and dieting to your latest gaming venture.

The following information may be extremely useful to keep yourself and your money or goods safe.
We recommend all members unfamiliar with a trading forum environment to read it carefully.

Contents:

1. Threads, posts and your Sythe.org Profile

> 1.1 How to edit your profile
> 1.2 How to create a signature
> 1.3 Embedding videos
> 1.4 Posting and creating threads
> 1.5 Changing your thread title
> 1.6 Quoting and multi-quoting

2. Trading Safely

> 2.1 Vouches
> 2.2 Keeping evidence
> 2.3 Reporting a scam
> 2.4 Imposters and how to avoid being scammed by one
> 2.5 Ban evaders and off-site scammers
> 2.6 Middlemen and Official Middlemen

3. Using Sythe.org Forums

> 3.1 Rules, regulations and forum specific rules
> 3.2 Reporting a post
> 3.3 Infractions and bans
> 3.4 Staff
> 3.5 Donations
> 3.6 Ranks and what they mean
> 3.7 Slang terms and their meanings

You can navigate to each section quickly by pressing CTRL+F and typing the content number (e.g. "3.3"), followed by enter.
Click to expand...

1. Your Sythe.org Profile!

1.1 Editing your profile

You will find your own user profile by clicking your username at the top right hand corner of your screen, next to 'Log Out'.
To edit your profile, click the "User CP" (User Control Panel) drop down link on the top left of your screen and then select "Edit Profile".

It is recommended you supply at least one method of contact (Skype, AIM, etc) in case someone should need to contact you regarding a trade.

1.2 Signatures

You are permitted to have a signature. This means links, pictures, graphic tags etc. can be put here and be displayed after every reply or topic you post.
Signatures larger than 650x350px are not permitted.

To edit your signature, click the "User CP" drop down link as before and select "Edit Signature".
Here you can use a variety of built in options to make a signature.

Images can be displayed using the tags when the link to the image is in between as shown above.
Similarly, hyper-links (words or images that redirect the user to another page when clicked) can be added using URL tags, also shown above.

The above would appear as so:

[img]http://i.imgur.com/9O82gwt.png

Other effects such as bold, underline, color, size and font can be used by highlighting the desired section of text and then clicking on the icons.

1.3 Embedding a Youtube video

To embed a Youtube video, select the Youtube icon from this tool-bar and select the video's URL after "v=" and copy it in between the tags.

coded as: which will appear as a playable, embedded video when posted.

1.4 Posting and creating threads

On Sythe.org you can post what we call threads in any given section as long as it is within the rules (See: 3.1: Rules, regulations and forum specific rules).

Threads will appear in a list, in each section. The most recently replied to will appear at the top.
This is the interface you will see at the bottom of the thread, this is where you reply to the thread.

To post your own thread, first check there isn't already a thread asking/discussing the same topic and find the "New thread" button on the top left, just above the stickied posts.
(More on stickies at: 3.1 Rules, regulations and forum specific rules)

Clicking this will take you to the thread creation interface. It is much the same as the reply interface.

1.5 Changing your thread title

Changing thread titles is a moderator action, because of this normal users cannot change their own titles.
This reduces people being able to cover up scams etc etc.

If you wish your title to be changed, simply report the post using the Report Button (See: 3.2 Reporting a post) on the top right of a post.

And type this (or similar) in to the text box:

The staff appointed in that section will deal with it accordingly.

1.6 Quoting and multi-quoting posts

Sometimes, it can be useful to quote someone's message.
To do this, simply click "Quote" on the bottom right of someone's message.

You'll then have a text box with the user's message quoted, you can copy and paste this in to one of your posts (For example, vouches) or simply reply and it should look like this:

To avoid multiple, single quote posts (which can be infracted, See: 3.3 Infractions and bans) you can multi-quote posts.

To do this, select this option on every post you wish to quote:

When clicked the small icon should turn red. When you get to the last post you wish to quote, simply click quote as before.

You have now quoted multiple posts.

If you are trying to quote a post from an old, archived thread or a closed thread, this guide will show you how:
http://www.sythe.org/internet/1526809-how-quote-closed-archived-thread-new-post.html

2. Trading safely on Sythe.org!

2.1 Vouches

There are several things which need to be taken in to account before trading on Sythe.
When looking to buy or sell, a user's vouches can tell a lot about how much you can trust that person.

Anyone can make a vouch thread here:
http://www.sythe.org/vouches-forum/

When a user buys from a user or sells to a user, a vouch can be left here detailing how well the trade went. A users vouches will usually be hyper-linked in their signature, selling/buying thread or can be asked for via PM or another method of contact.

Quality over quantity.

Consider this situation:

User #1 has over 100 vouches, all for small amounts where User #1 went first (provided the goods or payment first).

User #2 has 25 vouches for a larger value. The other user went first.

It is easy to be fooled by a large number of vouches, but it is the content of these which are important.
In this case, User #2 would usually be considered more trustworthy than User #1 as the trades had a large value and the other user went first.
Read carefully before trading.

A vouch may be presented as a quote:

Click the arrow, , and this will take you to where the original post was. Always double check the vouches are legitimate by clicking the arrow.

If there is no arrow, or the vouch appears differently in the quote than the original post, the vouch is FAKE.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - Trading safe

2.2 Keeping evidence

Whilst trading you should screenshot every stage of the trade.

Their profile/PM including their contact details.

Proof you aren't talking with an imposter if you're using Skype by taking a screenshot of the contact's profile displaying the users Skype name.

Screen shots of the entire conversation, chat logs (text files) don't count - only raw, un-cropped conversation screen shots. If you're using MSN don't close the conversation until you have all of this. E-buddy isn't recommended.

Make sure they confirm their payment details, for example, Paypal e-mail.

Screen shot proof of you sending payment to the confirmed details.

Keep this information well organised should a chargeback occur in future.

To upload your images to Sythe, I recommend www.imgur.com

Once uploaded, you can click edit and crop your images where necessary:

By clicking the image, you'll get the direct link, which can then be used with IMG tags.

2.3 Reporting a scammer

If in the unfortunate event of being scammed, you can post a scam report here: www.sythe.org/report-scammer/

Read these threads before posting to ensure the report is dealt with sooner:

http://www.sythe.org/report-scammer/1331084-attention-all-skype-proofs-must-include.html
http://www.sythe.org/report-scammer/1109411-how-make-proper-scam-report-rules-guidelines.html
http://www.sythe.org/report-scammer/1118369-templates-reporting-scammer-must-use.html

The staff will have a look at your report, and post asking for additional proof if need be. It's important you check the report every now and then to ensure it is handled quickly. If the person(s) is/are found guilty, they will be banned and must make a High Pardon here: http://www.sythe.org/dispute-forum/ to be unbanned. You will need to be refunded if they intend to make a pardon or they were hacked. Otherwise, there's no guarantee of repayment.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - Nabbing scammers

2.4 Imposters and how to avoid being scammed by one

An imposter is someone who could add you on Skype, AIM etc. and pretend to be someone from Sythe.

For example, if the legitimate Skype name was "user101" the imposter may make a Skype called "user101,".

This can be difficult to spot, so it is advised to ask for a private message on Sythe confirming you are speaking. For example:

If a user refuses a PM, or acts suspiciously when you ask for one - it's likely they were trying to scam you.

Alternatively, there is a feature built in to Sythe allowing you to add someone on various contact methods directly from a post.
This is why it is important to update your profile (See: 1.1 How to edit your profile)

Simply click, for example, the Skype icon on the corner of someone's post like so:

You will then see a pop-up, allowing you to choose multiple options, add the contact from here.

2.5 Ban evaders and off-site scammers

A ban evader is someone who has been banned previously and has made a new account in order to, as the name suggests, evade their ban.
This is not allowed and could lead to you being scammed.

To check for a ban evader, simply check the thread you are browsing or PM them asking for contact details.

If the user says their Skype is "RoaryNZ" (RwmRS2's Skype name) you would do this:

You can see all the links lead to RwmRS2's profile or posts - this confirms the user is legitimate as no other user profiles show up.
If, however, you search the contact details and you find a banned user using the same details previously you can report them for ban evasion here:

http://www.sythe.org/report-ban-evader/

Using this template:
http://www.sythe.org/report-ban-evader/1240795-template-reporting-ban-evader.html

Now, terminate the trade.

There are also off-site scammers to look out for. An off-site scammer is someone who has previously scammed on another site, for example - Powerbot.
To do this, you'd repeat the steps above only without the "Sythe.org" search. Search the user's contact details on their own and have a look at what comes up.

If all is clear, you can continue your trade.

2.6 Middlemen

If you can't decide who is going first in your trade or want to ensure a smooth trade, you can use a middleman.

Middlemen are ordinary users offering a middleman service.
Official middlemen are chosen by staff after completing a rigorous application.

The middleman section on Sythe.org can be found here:
http://www.sythe.org/middleman-forums/

Official middlemen can be found here:
http://www.sythe.org/middleman-forums/1302647-official-middleman-list.html

and can be identified by the Official Middleman rank under their username:

Some middlemen and official middlemen charge for their service, it is advised you arrange to split this fee with the other party. However, there are several, free services. Be careful when deciding who to trust with your trade. See: "vouches" in this guide.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - The black market and how it works

3. Using the Sythe.org forums!

3.1 Rules, regulations and forum specific rules

The Sythe.org Official Rules can be found here: Official Rules

There are some Frequently Asked Questions and answers here: http://www.sythe.org/sythe-org-support/1199458-sythe-faq-read-first.html

Alongside these rules, it may be the case that there are Forum Specific Rules.
Inside every section, there are usually "stickied" posts. They will appear in a different color from normal threads and have the sticky icon on the right.

You should read these to avoid receiving an infraction.

3.2 Reporting a post

If a user breaks one of the Sythe Official Rules (Click here), you may report the users post.

The 'Report a post' button can be found at the top right of each post.

Once you click the button you will be redirected to a text box. Here, you explain your reasoning behind reporting the post. Eg. 'Spam' or 'Grave dig'.

Mods will get round to checking the report and infracting the user if necessary.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - Sythe.org and how it works

3.3 Infractions and bans

Infractions are given when a post you make is against Sythe Official Rules (Click here). You will be given one point if one of your posts breaks one of these rules. The point will last 1 month and then will expire. If you accumulate a certain number of points; you will be given a temporary ban. These are as follows:

5 active points - 3 day, temporary ban
7 active points - 7 day, temporary ban
9 active points - 2 week, temporary ban

After receiving multiple temporary bans it is at the discretion of staff whether or not you are permanently banned.

Your current/expired infractions can be found on your user profile.

Serious rule breaking offences of the Sythe Official Rules (Click here) will have a consequence of an instant, permanent ban.

If you wish to be unbanned, first of all you'd have to repay what you scammed, then post a high pardon (click here) in the Dispute Section (Click here). It is at staff's discretion whether or not your pardon is accepted.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - Rules & Regulations

3.4 Sythe.org staff

To keep the site running smoothly, Sythe.org promotes staff to handle reports, users, queries and anything else which may require assistance. Staff can be identified by the ranks underneath their username.

The hierarchy is as follows (top to bottom):

You can find out how staff are chosen here: Staff; how it works.

You can view the current staff team and their appropriate section(s) here: Staff Groups

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - Sythe, its staff and what we do

3.5 Donations

Donations are a vital part of Sythe.org and play a huge role in keeping Sythe.org funded. Once you donate a specific amount, you will receive you a rank plus some special features exclusive to donors!

You can find all you need to know about donating here:
Sythe Donation Centre

Donor ranks and benefits:

Access to the Donor's Lounge

A Bigger PM Box (500 Messages)

Hidden Mode (Appear Offline)

A Larger Avatar (150 x 100px max)

Over 30 Extra Post Icons

All previous perks

All previous perks

Custom User Title

All previous perks

Enhanced User Title (colors etc)

All previous perks

Custom Username Image

All previous perks

Custom Rank (you choose outer icons on donation rank)

There are also what we call Legacy Ranks in donation ranks. These are only available to users who donated before July 1, 2010.

Re-cap: Sythe FAQ - All about donations

3.6 Ranks and what they mean

You may have noticed underneath certain usernames, there are what we call 'ranks'.

There are five different types of rank:

Staff ranks

Status ranks
> Donation ranks

Fun-ranks

Mini-ranks

Staff ranks - These ranks are given to staff so they are easily identified. Each section has it's own rank (shown above: 3.4 Sythe.org staff)

Status ranks - These show someone's status on Sythe.

Banned - the user is permanently banned.

Temporary ban - This user is banned for the time being. This could be due to infraction build up or as a precaution.

Self-requested ban - This user has requested their account be banned. This is usually done when a user needs time off and can be removed on request.

Trade with Caution - This user has been deemed suspicious in their market activities. Other users are advised to trade with caution.

Head Middleman - Appointed by administration to co-ordinate the official middlemen.

Official Middleman - Middlemen who wish to become OMM's must complete a rigorous application in order to attain this rank.

Java Programmer - This user has exceptional knowledge regarding programming in Java. Only awarded in rare circumstances.

vB Programmer - This user has exceptional knowledge regarding programming in Visual Basic. Only awarded in rare circumstances.

PHP Programmer - This user has exceptional knowledge on PHP programming and web development. Only awarded in rare circumstances.

Scar Programmer - This user has exceptional knowledge in creating Scar scripts. Only awarded in rare circumstances.

Head of Donations - In charge of handling and processing all Sythe.org donations via the Donations Centre.

Donation Ranks - These show the amount a user has donated.

You can find out more about donation ranks at: 3.5 Donations

Fun-ranks - These ranks are awarded to users by the administration team for contribution and service to Sythe. In rare occasions, they may be incentives for competitions.
Do not ask for a fun-rank.

You can find out who has each rank here: Titles & Ranks

Mini-ranks

You may notice that on the top, right corner of a post there are smaller ranks on show.

These are called mini-ranks. They are awarded for several various things.

Find out how to attain them here: Mini-rank automation

These are taken away when the user falls below the requirement.

3.7 Slang terms and what they mean

Around Sythe and forum communities in general you may come across some abbreviations you've never heard or seen before. You can find these below.

A
A/W - Auto Win. Used to describe the "buy now" price of an item/good.
B
Bump - Bring Up My Post. Used to push a thread to the top of the section and can be done every 8 hours.
C
CDT - Community Development Team. A team responsible for bringing the community together using events and other such things. Members can be viewed here: http://www.sythe.org/community-general/1498824-community-development-team-members-our-aim.html
D
DL - Donor Lounge. A section only visible to Sythe.org donors.
DNS List - Do Not Suggest List. A list of suggestions already denied and so should not be suggested for those reasons.
E, F
G
GFX - Graphics. These are bought and sold in Sythe's graphics marketplace.
H
I
IRC - Internet Relay Chat. IRC is a form of real-time Internet text messaging. Sythe's unofficial IRC can be found here: www.phrashed.net
J, K
L
LR - Liberty Reserve. A payment option commonly used on Sythe.
LCU - Last Chance Usergroup. When a user has been banned numerous times for infraction build-up or otherwise, they may be placed in the LCU, their final warning to behave.
M
MB - MoneyBookers. A commonly used payment method.
MM - Middleman. Provides a service to help a trade go smoothly.
MotM - Member of the Month. A competition run by the Community Development Team.
MSP - Microsoft Points.
N
NFS - Not For Sale.
NSFW - Not Safe For Work. Content not suitable for viewing whilst at work or similar.
O
OMM - Official Middleman. Middlemen deemed professional and trustworthy enough by the administration team.
OP - Original Post(er). Referring to a threads author or their post.
OT - Off-Topic (section) or On Topic (when posting a response to a thread).
P
PA - Player Auctions. A virtual middleman connecting buyers with sellers. Used by Sythe businesses.
PC - Post Count. The number of posts a user has made on Sythe.
PM - Private Message. Messages sent on Sythe from user to user that cannot be viewed by anyone else. Can also be used to refer to game PM's.
PP - PayPal. A virtual wallet used commonly as a payment method.
PPD - Posts Per Day. The number of posts made by a particular user in one day, visible on their profile.
Q
R
RaSc - Report a Scammer. A section on Sythe.org.
RaSp - Report a Spammer. A section on Sythe.org.
RSGP - Runescape Gold Pieces. The currency used on an online game, Runescape.
RSPS - Runescape Private Server. A copy of the Runescape game hosted unofficially with certain customisable features.
RFT - Ready For Transfer. Usually used to refer to the selling of rare named accounts on Runescape.
S
S/B - Starting Bid. The lowest offer accepted by the seller of a good.
SC - Support Center. A section on Sythe.org.
SF - Spam Forum. A section on Sythe.org.
SFA - Something For All. A section on Sythe.org.
Sig - Signature. Available to all users - a signature space of 650x350px found on the bottom of a user's posts.
SL - Staff Lounge. A section only visible to the Sythe.org Staff for confidential discussion.
SRB - Self-Requested Ban. When a user requests a ban for personal reasons this rank will appear as opposed to Banned.
T
tl;dr - too long, didn't read. A common phrase used when someone explains something in great depth. tl;dr is followed by a brief summary.
TwC - Trade with Caution. A rank given to users who have been deemed suspicious in their market activities but do not warrant a ban.
U
UI - Username Image. A donation perk available at 200$ allowing users to have a graphic image for a username.
USL - Upper Staff Lounge. A section only visible for Global moderators and Administration. For confidential discussion.
UT - User Title. A donation perk available at 50$ allowing users to customise the line of text below the username.
V
W
WTB - Want to buy. Used in thread titles for a brief idea of what the thread contains.
WTS - Want to sell. Used in thread titles for a brief idea of what the thread contains.
WU - Western Union. A commonly used payment option.
X, Y, Z

Click to expand...

SuF · Jan 25, 2013

Things to do:

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

Has there been a section on reporting posts/reporting scammers and ban evaders?
Click to expand...

Laurie · Jan 26, 2013

Do you feel the legacy ranks need to be added next to the current ones, or perhaps a note notifying why some users have different ones to avoid confusion?

R · Jan 26, 2013

Amethyst said: ↑

Do you feel the legacy ranks need to be added next to the current ones, or perhaps a note notifying why some users have different ones to avoid confusion?
Click to expand...

If you could do me a favour and link the images from the donor centre I can add them in ^_^

@SuF, added in quoting and multi-quoting, can remove from things to do.

SuF · Jan 27, 2013

RwmRS2 said: ↑

If you could do me a favour and link the images from the donor centre I can add them in ^_^

@SuF, added in quoting and multi-quoting, can remove from things to do.
Click to expand...

Moved it in.

I_DONT_BOT · Jan 27, 2013

Has there been a section on reporting posts/reporting scammers and ban evaders?

Host · Jan 27, 2013

Wow nice one, there is some stuff in there that would have done me a world of good when I joined, even learnt one or two things reading it..

R · Jan 27, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

Has there been a section on reporting posts/reporting scammers and ban evaders?
Click to expand...

Not vaders. If someone could write that i'd appreciate it

SuF · Jan 27, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

Has there been a section on reporting posts/reporting scammers and ban evaders?
Click to expand...

Added to things to do.

R · Jan 28, 2013

Added vading/imposters. Bump for ideas.

SuF · Jan 28, 2013

Bump. Anyone want to work on the PM to be sent?

I_DONT_BOT · Jan 28, 2013

SuF said: ↑

Bump. Anyone want to work on the PM to be sent?
Click to expand...

If I knew the basic info that's needed I could help Roary compile it?

R · Jan 28, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

If I knew the basic info that's needed I could help Roary compile it?
Click to expand...

Basically just links to the basics as far as I'm aware.
A basic introduction of what Sythe is and what to expect.

The links I thought that'd be most useful for the original idea of just a PM are still in my first post if you want to have a look.

Unfortunately I'm working from an iPod right now so I can't get too heavily involved with this part.. :/

SuF · Jan 28, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

If I knew the basic info that's needed I could help Roary compile it?
Click to expand...

http://www.sythe.org/11885172-post2.html

It should be short and to the point. We want people to read it. We want it to provide essential information and links to more in depth information.

I_DONT_BOT · Jan 28, 2013

Welcome to sythe.org, we are glad you've joined our community. Please take a minute to read our rules. If you have any questions about sythe.org itself, please post them in the Sythe.org Support section, where a friendly member of our community will help you out. However, before you do that, could you please check our FAQ, as we have a large amount of questions answered in there. Before you start trading, it might be helpful for you to read the market guide, as it has a lot of valuable information about keeping your trading and sythe.org account safe. Also, we have made a newcomers guide recently, which is really helpful for newer members to our forums, so why not check it out.

This is a brief description of sythe.org - Sythe.org is a black-market, known as “The Craigslist of Virtual Goods”. Most people come to sythe.org for the markets, but also for the talk about RS Cheating, as back in the day sythe hosted it's own bots. There is also a programming section and GFX section, and of course the Off Topic and Spam Forum for relaxing.

Thanks for reading, and hope you enjoy your stay
Sythe.org Staff & Community
Click to expand...

Needs some work, but it's a start. Thoughts?

Roary gave some feedback, changed the links @ bottom to hyperlinks in the post

Market Guide in BOLD still needs hyperlink, can't find it :3
Same with tut island thread in red and bold

R · Jan 29, 2013

Looking good so far, I'd just play around with it so it looks more factual and not like lots of text.

Bump for ideas.

I_DONT_BOT · Jan 29, 2013

RwmRS2 said: ↑

Looking good so far, I'd just play around with it so it looks more factual and not like lots of text.

Bump for ideas.
Click to expand...

Yeah, i'm trying to think how to make the layout a bit better, if anyone wants to edit it etc feel free, any improvements are a bonus

SuF · Jan 29, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

Needs some work, but it's a start. Thoughts?

Roary gave some feedback, changed the links @ bottom to hyperlinks in the post

Market Guide in BOLD still needs hyperlink, can't find it :3
Same with tut island thread in red and bold
Click to expand...

I'd put what Sythe is first and then the other stuff. I'd also try to like list threads so they are more easily seen.

I_DONT_BOT · Jan 30, 2013

SuF said: ↑

I'd put what Sythe is first and then the other stuff. I'd also try to like list threads so they are more easily seen.
Click to expand...

Originally the threads were in a list at the bottom (and I referred to them in the PM), but roary thought it would look better with them hyperlinked, as then they were in front of them at all times, instea of having to scroll through a wall of text to get to them. After the 'we're glad you've joined our community' bit should the what is sythe bit be placed you think? Would edit it up but I'll be on mobile sythe for the next 8 hours.

SuF · Jan 30, 2013

I_DONT_BOT said: ↑

Originally the threads were in a list at the bottom (and I referred to them in the PM), but roary thought it would look better with them hyperlinked, as then they were in front of them at all times, instea of having to scroll through a wall of text to get to them. After the 'we're glad you've joined our community' bit should the what is sythe bit be placed you think? Would edit it up but I'll be on mobile sythe for the next 8 hours.
Click to expand...

I just think it's hard to find the links when they are within the text. That's all.

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