Hacking/security related questions and topics are encouraged, but there is a thin line between what is acceptable and what is not. If your question is overly common (as if you didn't bother searching first), immature/demanding, or implies that you're just flat out looking for trouble then it is not acceptable. We encourage mischief, hence "i code viruses" but do not encourage stupidity. Hacking is self-education and takes work; it is a word to be respected, NOT a power trip / way to show off / form of control over those less savvy. Yes, some hackers are malicious and that is their prerogative, but if you're going to have that mind-set here then you need to be a grown-up about it.

The rule of thumb is: no matter what it is you're having trouble with (malicious in nature or not), you should be at least 80% capable of doing it all by yourself; only ask if you need help with the other 20% or simply don't ask. If you can do that much then you'll be fine.

If you happen to find any legitimate exploits or bugs on the site (xss, csrf, etc...) which could be used for malicious purposes and decide to let us know about it rather than exploiting it, you will be rewarded w/ points (and be in our good graces) which will help you gain access to more privileges. I promise, we will NOT be upset if you talk to us about it; quite the opposite.

Forum etiquette
1. It's the quality of your posts that matters, not quantity. Don't post for the sake of posting. Don't post if you have nothing to contribute to the thread.
2. Contribute, don't reiterate. There's no need to restate what's already been said or reply with "yeah" or "I agree." unless someone's taking a survey or someone is in need of persuasion, etc.
3. When you have a problem, need help, have a question, or just need some information: First, use a good search engine such as google. Once you have searched (or "googled") for what you seek, then use ICV's search to see if someone has already asked the same question. If that fails, then you're all clear to start a new thread. Do not hijack another thread to ask a question unrelated to that thread.
4. If you're wondering what programming language you should learn first, don't ask. If you're wondering how to get passed your school filters or gain admin privileges, don't ask. If you want help or need advice with getting revenge, don't ask.
5. Do not resurrect ancient threads that are several months or more old unless you have some truly useful information to add.
6. When asking for technical assistance, include all necessary and pertinent information for a speedy resolution. Remember, the site is called "i code viruses" so it doesn't really make sense to ask for help on how to remove viruses, now does it?
7. Spelling and grammar: DO use a bloody spellcheck if you're a horrible speller; you know who you are! DON'T use more periods or exclamation points than needed (unless it's funny to do so). DO use punctuation to make your posts intelligible! DON'T use excessive 1337speak. "...sloppy spelling in a purely written forum sends out the same silent messages that soiled clothing would when addressing an audience." -Emily Postnews
8. BAD thread titles (taken straight from ICV):

   ---

   • Question
   • help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
   • Newbie
   • Problems with networking
   • Troubleshooting
   • Python
   • Uhhh...ooops?
   • lol
   • random comment...

   ---

   GOOD thread titles:
   • The first game i ever made
   • free web hosts?
   • How do i make sure my computer is 100% virus free?
   • How to install Ubuntu?
   • icv irc channel
   • Dell Battery Recall
   • NetSky.AB. W32/NetSky.AB@mm help!
   • Use ICV to get an IP address
   • Your Best Hack/Prank
   Do you see a pattern here? Ambiguous, nondescriptive thread titles are bad; descriptive and appropriate thread titles are good.
9. Post your thread in the appropriate forum. I.E. a thread about World of Warcraft doesn't belong in the security forum.
10. Leave your ego at the login page. ICV is a place for exchanging information. We were all noobs once; we all have our strengths and weaknesses. If, however, your weakness is common sense, then you will get flamed.
11. Don't double post. If you find yourself needing to double post, maybe it would be better to edit your previous post instead.
12. Read all previous posts in full before replying. This is for your protection; consider it a flame retardant suit.
13. Stay on topic. If you feel compelled to talk about something unrelated to a thread, start a new thread.
14. Don't use ICV to blog about your personal life unless it's relevant to a topic appropriate for ICV.
15. Advertising, spamming and trolling is not allowed. This includes using the private message system to spam other members.
16. Any attempts to impersonate an admin will result in a ban.