⭐ Popularity System

The Popularity System allows eligible members to leave public feedback about other users.

It is a social opinion metric, not a Marketplace reputation system.

❓ Common Questions

What is the Popularity System?

The Popularity System allows upgraded members to leave comments and assign a numerical rating that is visible to the rest of Hack Forums.

What is the Popularity System used for?

Primarily, it allows members to express their personal opinion about another user.

It is not intended to measure trustworthiness, professionalism, or Marketplace reliability.

Why do some members have more popularity points than comments?

Some users can assign multiple popularity points per comment.

The number of points available depends on the rater’s group:

• L33t members: -1, 0, or +1
• Ub3r members: -3 to +3
• Staff: -5 to +5
• Administrators: -10 to +10

Can members write anything they want when giving popularity?

Generally, yes.

The primary exception is Marketplace-related commentary.

What types of popularity comments are disallowed?

All Marketplace-related comments are prohibited.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Calling someone a scammer
• Calling someone trusted or untrusted
• Referencing products, services, sales, or transactions

Popularity ratings must not reference Marketplace activity in any way.

What happens if I violate the Marketplace comment policy?

The popularity rating will be removed.

You will receive a warning from staff.

Can members ask others to leave popularity ratings?

Yes.

Asking for popularity ratings is allowed.

Can my popularity be reset?

No.

Popularity is permanent and will not be reset for any reason.

Consider this carefully when interacting with other members.

I believe I was abused through popularity. How do I report it?

You may contact Staff for review.

Popularity ratings will only be removed if they violate the Marketplace comment restriction.

Staff does not moderate popularity for fairness, tone, or personal disagreement.

What is revenge popularity, and is it allowed?

Revenge popularity occurs when a member leaves you a negative rating after you rated them negatively.

This is allowed.

If you leave negative popularity, you should expect the possibility of a reciprocal rating.

Staff and Admins will not take action on revenge popularity.

Can I have a negative popularity rating removed if it seems unfair or doesn’t make sense?

No.

Fairness or logical reasoning is not required.

You may contact the member who left the rating if you wish to understand their reasoning.

If a member who left me popularity gets banned, can the rating be removed?

No.

Popularity ratings from banned members are not removed.

I was scammed and want to leave popularity about it. Can I?

No.

Marketplace-related issues must be handled through the Contracts system.

Popularity ratings are unrelated to Marketplace activity.

Popularity is an opinion system, not a justice system.

Use it thoughtfully.