Dec 29, 2015 02:29 PM
(This post was last modified: Dec 29, 2015 05:16 PM by Retribute.)
Preface
At first I was hesitant on whether I should create a feedback thread or not given the few people who actually know who I am, of which many have left the forums to pursue other life opportunities. Anyway, as I noticed the tremendous amount of online time I have on this board, 8 months and 6 days as of this posting, I feel this is the right time for me to write up a feedback thread as I'm slowly but surely developing an indifferent outlook on the members who currently reside here, and ultimately the board itself. I have allotted myself two hours to write this up, so let's begin.
Note: I will not write a tl;dr. I honestly don't care much if you don't read the whole thing. If you don't feel the need to, chances are I don't care much for you anyway -- I'm being serious.
Who am I?
As I am sure many of you don't know or simply don't care who I am, I will explain so that you have a better understanding of me.
I originated from a game community infested by hackers and prepubescent coders who seemed to enjoy making life hard for children by doxing, DDoSing, and starting flame wars; however, unlike many other communities that go under this guise, these teenagers actually knew what they were doing. Their influence on the game's community spawned a whole subset itself of coders and wannabe hackers, as well as people who enjoyed playing a game without having to pay for anything. I grew up in this community and rose up from the very pits. I tried to groom the fragments of the community into more mature individuals, but after a few years, I grew tired of it all. One day one of my ex-colleagues managed to hack one of my VPS' and dumped the whole database, filled with the credentials of over 8k users, onto the internet. At the time I was not sure whether this was through an exploit through the VPS itself, or whether I was RAT'ed. I also had my suspicions that I was a part of a botnet. Around the same time, my friend had referred me to Hack Forums to vouch for his doxing program he coded in PHP. When I first joined, I was intimidate by the amount of activity this forum had, but I saw many opportunities as well. The first place I visited was the White Hat Help section in order to get a check-up on my system. Ever since the members helped me from there, my one and only goal was to be able to become as helpful as them one day. As you see, my intentions upon joining this forum were never rooted to malicious intents. I am unlike many other members in this case. Ironically, probably my one and only intention was to educate myself on white hat security.
----
Here are the sections that I feel warrants my feedback -- if I didn't include a section, it's because of one of two things (or both):
a) There's not much for me to comment on because the section is fine as it is, or b) I don't visit said section enough to warrant feedback
White Hat Malware, Virus, and Rat Removal Help
I grew up in the section. I constantly read threads that the HJT/MRT members assisted with in order to develop my own knowledge. I even read every single available HJT thread in Support Forums before a moderator removed all the content.
I highly regarded every single MRT helper, and it helped that many of them (and all the teachers except for Deltron I believe...) were members of The Alliance, which was the closest thing to family I've ever felt I had on the internet. I never got the chance to formally apply to the HJT/MRT team because the only recruitment that happened after the time I joined the board is when I was already training on another site due to Paradoxum's advice. I was torn that I didn't get the chance to learn from them personally, however at the same time I feel that it's for the best. The section itself was fantastic when the MRT was still in-tact and active. Unfortunately, the section has been reduced to a shell of its former self. I am not sure who the members that are currently helping in the section are (as in, how they are educated), nor do I know whether they are properly trained or not. This in itself takes away a lot of credibility the section once had. It honestly makes me very sad.
Rules, Announcements, News, and Feedback
This section has always been very good in terms of getting help from other members/mentors/Staff/Admins if you ever need clarity on a matter regarding the site. I'm quite fond of this section. The only thing that I don't like, however, is how members tend to go crazy with their post-count raising here. When a question has been answered, why do members feel the need to re-post the same answer 10 times? It's pretty ridiculous if you ask me. This is probably my biggest pet-peeve.
Anyway, I really wish more people read the Help Documents. Many of you need to be reminded that Omniscient took the time to write the Help Documents to rid the chance that repetitive questions be asked.
In the Suggestions and Ideas section, I also wish people actually read the stickies.
For MOTM, I honestly stopped caring for it entirely years ago. There's not much to say about it because I'm sure most people share my sentiment on the subject.
The Lounge
This section is obviously the most active section. I really enjoy reading the threads there whenever I feel bored or need a good laugh. Some say the quality has died down, but really, nothing about it has changed for me.
Personal Life - Education Nation
This section is full of mature members who are willing to help others with their homework. This section is also helpful whenever you need advice on anything pertaining to school or post-school. I have been the recipient of help here, as well as the person who gives help. The help that I receive is usually top-notch, and I always try my best to help others to the best of my ability.
Anime Adventures
I don't visit this section much currently, but I really like it because it's a place where Anime fans can rejoice and be themselves. One of the most shocking aspects of this forum that I noticed upon joining is the discrimination fans of Anime face. This is a culture shock to me because from where I come from (both in real life and on the internet), Anime is everywhere and is embraced. I never really understood how someone can hate Anime, but regardless, for everything someone likes, there's someone who doesn't.
Here I will be giving feedback on groups.
List of groups I have been in:
The Alliance
Also known as Paradoxum's cat farm. This was my first group, and the closest thing to family I've ever had on the internet (I'm repeating this to emphasize this point). All of the members were close with one another, and to this day, I feel like this is still the only group that was properly run. I am grateful to Deities for accepting me even though I was a nobody on the forums (I was an un-upgraded member with like 20 reputation points), and grateful to Paradoxum because she had the ability and innovation that a leader needed to successfully run a group. Many of her ideas have provided the structure to how many groups have run, or are now running. I would like to thank all the TA teachers that took the time to set up lessons within the subforum to educate the members within their sector. It saddens me that the majority of the TA members are now inactive and have decided to leave Hack Forums. Many of the ex-Staff and Mentors were members of The Alliance, and that truly serves as a testament to the members that the group harbored. Love you guys.
The Wraith
This group was the OG group centered around the SRPP section. This group had very intellectual members, and intellectual and thought provoking discussion actually happened in the group. Many of its members have left the forums after the closure of the group, which is quite unfortunate.
Infamous
During the time I was a part of this group, it was pretty decent. I don't really have much to say.
Nexus
This group revolved around League of Legends and was Hexicidal's short-lived child after he succumbed to his addiction to League of Legends. It was active and I quite liked the group. It was fun while it lasted.
Rhythm
Just another name for The Lounge except with an emphasis on music. It was a very active group.
Root
I wasn't in the group long enough for me to give sufficient feedback.
Writ3rs
I first started on the Wiki side of things. I soon transitioned to the HF News when Sir needed a proofreader ASAP because his proofreader at the time bailed (Phytrix). I eventually dethroned the position from Phytrix because I consistently did my duty well. I really enjoyed working with the team at the time, but eventually the workload was too much for me and I had to resign. Sir's last words to me was that I was supposed to be his successor, but I didn't have time for the HF News anymore.
Logic/L'apple du Vide/The Black Lodge
These are Hexicidal's groups centered around SRPP discussion. It's clear Hexicidal has good intentions with his groups, but in my opinion a SRPP group won't be truly successful anymore. The content within the subforum is all right. Hexicidal, you harbor a lot of members that take on the edgy-teenager persona, and I'm not sure why they have a place there other than that they're your friends, but in my opinion if you wish to run a successful group you can't just give your friends a free pass. But then again you did spend thousands of dollars on this group, so you're free to do whatever you want.
Instinct/Nightfall
These groups were basically Vinnie's lounges. Not much to say other than they were very active and fun groups to be in.
Null
I was in this group for a month or two until the ownership was transferred to Nobility after T3h Hack3r sold it. It's a group filled with very intelligent people, and most of their activity is done off-site last time I was in the group. I suppose I was a part of Vinnie's old condom.
I'm not sure what goes on in the subforum anymore so I don't have anything else to say.
AnimeFAN!
This group is a safe-haven for Anime otakus and weaboos where we can have friendly discussions about anime and the like. The group was extremely active when I first joined, but the activity has died down severely ever since Assault announced that the group is on sale. The members are very friendly and I have become befriended many of them.
Here are the members that I feel deserve to be publicly named for playing a role in my journey on HF in no certain order. I will also provide feedback to these members.
All of the members here have a place in my heart.
Paradoxum
You're the only person I will say serves as a role-model for me. You're probably one of the best members HF has ever produced. I'm glad I am able to converse with you to this day. You have helped this forum so much by leading arguably the best usergroup, by leading the HJT/MRT on both HF and SF, and by serving as a Staff member here. And because of your intelligence and professionalism, I look up to you.
Deities
We never really conversed with each other much because you quit HF not long after I joined, but I appreciate you for accepting me into The Alliance.
I also remember the reputation you gave me by heart ^_^
"Too short to manage, but we are able to jump. "
AlbinoShadow
You're the first friend I ever made on HF. We were both recruited to The Alliance at the same time, and also became Ub3r almost on the same day. You're a great and intelligent guy, and it shocks me that we're the same age. I'm sad that you left HF, but I'm sure it's for the best.
Analog/Raptured
You're the second friend I ever made on HF. You're very easy to talk to, as well as outgoing. Maybe we'll meet one day because we live pretty close to each other and are both outdoorsman.
Hexicidal
We've been friends for many years now. I really like you as an individual because of your maturity and intellect. As for your groups, I feel you should take a more stern approach if you seriously wish for success for your groups.
T3h Hack3r
We've never really talked that much, but I really like you as a member. I appreciate the efforts you put forward for leading the MRT and The Alliance, as well as the efforts you put forward during your time as a Mentor and Staff Member. Thanks for buying me Ub3r as well -- it was an unexpected gift. ^_^
RDCA
Just like all the MRT members, you're very intelligent. I remember taking the lessons you offered in The Alliance and they were very well done. You grew up to be an asset to this community.
Brandenx781 AKA Brenden
Your story on how you became a MRT member and teacher is very inspirational. I wish you stayed on the forum!
Auron
A friend I made within The Alliance. You're a good guy. I still remember that signature you made (I think) of The Alliance members of how we would look like if we were black. It gave me a good laugh.
D3xus
Very smart and mature individual and a great asset to the forum itself. I appreciate your efforts with the Wiki and your past efforts as a Staff member. iOS beast, last I recall.
Viral Dragon
Because of the help you provided me within the WHH section, you became the reason why I wanted to join The Alliance. I wanted to become a helpful member just like you. You lurk a lot now, but I appreciate all that you have done for the forums, from leading groups to your role as a Staff member. I also enjoyed the PHP lessons you hosted in The Alliance.
CarrotMilk
Great guy. I enjoyed the PHP lessons you hosted in The Alliance. I miss your carrots.
Sir
Your efforts with the HF news is unparalleled. I don't like Omniscient's decision on closing your account, especially considering all that you have done for the News.
Grin
It saddens me that you went down as a scammer. I enjoyed reading your posts as you were very active.
ven0m
We embarked on a journey at the same time, but you were the one who made it. I'll make it...eventually. 😝
Wafflemonger
It was fun working with you in the WHH sector in The Alliance. I'm glad I recruited you. You're an intelligent guy.
Overall, I really enjoyed my journey on this forum. I'm glad I came here.
Now I am saying the following with the understanding that I may be sanctioned for speaking out. Omniscient, you're the most capable forum owner I've come across, and I appreciate all that you do for the forum. I just hope that one day you can keep your emotions in check so that you can stop making brash decisions such as closing a member because they piss you off. I know you're working on this which I'm glad about. I think it should be said that I don't agree with your decision to close the MRT with 'elitism' being one of the reasons. In my opinion from what I see and know, that is absolutely ridiculous. Also your approach with the group during its existence, I feel was wrong. You should have listened to what the MRT leaders wanted with a more understanding mindset. I exist in the community that these MRT members come from and fully understand why they operate in the way that they do, and why it is needed. Now that the group is gone, the WHH section has lost a lot of credibility as well as capable members.
At first I was hesitant on whether I should create a feedback thread or not given the few people who actually know who I am, of which many have left the forums to pursue other life opportunities. Anyway, as I noticed the tremendous amount of online time I have on this board, 8 months and 6 days as of this posting, I feel this is the right time for me to write up a feedback thread as I'm slowly but surely developing an indifferent outlook on the members who currently reside here, and ultimately the board itself. I have allotted myself two hours to write this up, so let's begin.
Note: I will not write a tl;dr. I honestly don't care much if you don't read the whole thing. If you don't feel the need to, chances are I don't care much for you anyway -- I'm being serious.
Who am I?
As I am sure many of you don't know or simply don't care who I am, I will explain so that you have a better understanding of me.
I originated from a game community infested by hackers and prepubescent coders who seemed to enjoy making life hard for children by doxing, DDoSing, and starting flame wars; however, unlike many other communities that go under this guise, these teenagers actually knew what they were doing. Their influence on the game's community spawned a whole subset itself of coders and wannabe hackers, as well as people who enjoyed playing a game without having to pay for anything. I grew up in this community and rose up from the very pits. I tried to groom the fragments of the community into more mature individuals, but after a few years, I grew tired of it all. One day one of my ex-colleagues managed to hack one of my VPS' and dumped the whole database, filled with the credentials of over 8k users, onto the internet. At the time I was not sure whether this was through an exploit through the VPS itself, or whether I was RAT'ed. I also had my suspicions that I was a part of a botnet. Around the same time, my friend had referred me to Hack Forums to vouch for his doxing program he coded in PHP. When I first joined, I was intimidate by the amount of activity this forum had, but I saw many opportunities as well. The first place I visited was the White Hat Help section in order to get a check-up on my system. Ever since the members helped me from there, my one and only goal was to be able to become as helpful as them one day. As you see, my intentions upon joining this forum were never rooted to malicious intents. I am unlike many other members in this case. Ironically, probably my one and only intention was to educate myself on white hat security.
----
Here are the sections that I feel warrants my feedback -- if I didn't include a section, it's because of one of two things (or both):
a) There's not much for me to comment on because the section is fine as it is, or b) I don't visit said section enough to warrant feedback
White Hat Malware, Virus, and Rat Removal Help
I grew up in the section. I constantly read threads that the HJT/MRT members assisted with in order to develop my own knowledge. I even read every single available HJT thread in Support Forums before a moderator removed all the content.
I highly regarded every single MRT helper, and it helped that many of them (and all the teachers except for Deltron I believe...) were members of The Alliance, which was the closest thing to family I've ever felt I had on the internet. I never got the chance to formally apply to the HJT/MRT team because the only recruitment that happened after the time I joined the board is when I was already training on another site due to Paradoxum's advice. I was torn that I didn't get the chance to learn from them personally, however at the same time I feel that it's for the best. The section itself was fantastic when the MRT was still in-tact and active. Unfortunately, the section has been reduced to a shell of its former self. I am not sure who the members that are currently helping in the section are (as in, how they are educated), nor do I know whether they are properly trained or not. This in itself takes away a lot of credibility the section once had. It honestly makes me very sad.
Rules, Announcements, News, and Feedback
This section has always been very good in terms of getting help from other members/mentors/Staff/Admins if you ever need clarity on a matter regarding the site. I'm quite fond of this section. The only thing that I don't like, however, is how members tend to go crazy with their post-count raising here. When a question has been answered, why do members feel the need to re-post the same answer 10 times? It's pretty ridiculous if you ask me. This is probably my biggest pet-peeve.
Anyway, I really wish more people read the Help Documents. Many of you need to be reminded that Omniscient took the time to write the Help Documents to rid the chance that repetitive questions be asked.
In the Suggestions and Ideas section, I also wish people actually read the stickies.
For MOTM, I honestly stopped caring for it entirely years ago. There's not much to say about it because I'm sure most people share my sentiment on the subject.
The Lounge
This section is obviously the most active section. I really enjoy reading the threads there whenever I feel bored or need a good laugh. Some say the quality has died down, but really, nothing about it has changed for me.
Personal Life - Education Nation
This section is full of mature members who are willing to help others with their homework. This section is also helpful whenever you need advice on anything pertaining to school or post-school. I have been the recipient of help here, as well as the person who gives help. The help that I receive is usually top-notch, and I always try my best to help others to the best of my ability.
Anime Adventures
I don't visit this section much currently, but I really like it because it's a place where Anime fans can rejoice and be themselves. One of the most shocking aspects of this forum that I noticed upon joining is the discrimination fans of Anime face. This is a culture shock to me because from where I come from (both in real life and on the internet), Anime is everywhere and is embraced. I never really understood how someone can hate Anime, but regardless, for everything someone likes, there's someone who doesn't.
Here I will be giving feedback on groups.
List of groups I have been in:
- The Alliance
- The Wraith
- Infamous
- Nexus
- Rhythm
- Reverence
- Root
- Writ3rs (both News and Wiki)
- The Creed
- Coders
- Logic
- Void
- L'apple du Vide
- The Black Lodge
- Null
- AnimeFAN!
- Nightfall
- Instinct
The Alliance
Also known as Paradoxum's cat farm. This was my first group, and the closest thing to family I've ever had on the internet (I'm repeating this to emphasize this point). All of the members were close with one another, and to this day, I feel like this is still the only group that was properly run. I am grateful to Deities for accepting me even though I was a nobody on the forums (I was an un-upgraded member with like 20 reputation points), and grateful to Paradoxum because she had the ability and innovation that a leader needed to successfully run a group. Many of her ideas have provided the structure to how many groups have run, or are now running. I would like to thank all the TA teachers that took the time to set up lessons within the subforum to educate the members within their sector. It saddens me that the majority of the TA members are now inactive and have decided to leave Hack Forums. Many of the ex-Staff and Mentors were members of The Alliance, and that truly serves as a testament to the members that the group harbored. Love you guys.
The Wraith
This group was the OG group centered around the SRPP section. This group had very intellectual members, and intellectual and thought provoking discussion actually happened in the group. Many of its members have left the forums after the closure of the group, which is quite unfortunate.
Infamous
During the time I was a part of this group, it was pretty decent. I don't really have much to say.
Nexus
This group revolved around League of Legends and was Hexicidal's short-lived child after he succumbed to his addiction to League of Legends. It was active and I quite liked the group. It was fun while it lasted.
Rhythm
Just another name for The Lounge except with an emphasis on music. It was a very active group.
Root
I wasn't in the group long enough for me to give sufficient feedback.
Writ3rs
I first started on the Wiki side of things. I soon transitioned to the HF News when Sir needed a proofreader ASAP because his proofreader at the time bailed (Phytrix). I eventually dethroned the position from Phytrix because I consistently did my duty well. I really enjoyed working with the team at the time, but eventually the workload was too much for me and I had to resign. Sir's last words to me was that I was supposed to be his successor, but I didn't have time for the HF News anymore.
Logic/L'apple du Vide/The Black Lodge
These are Hexicidal's groups centered around SRPP discussion. It's clear Hexicidal has good intentions with his groups, but in my opinion a SRPP group won't be truly successful anymore. The content within the subforum is all right. Hexicidal, you harbor a lot of members that take on the edgy-teenager persona, and I'm not sure why they have a place there other than that they're your friends, but in my opinion if you wish to run a successful group you can't just give your friends a free pass. But then again you did spend thousands of dollars on this group, so you're free to do whatever you want.
Instinct/Nightfall
These groups were basically Vinnie's lounges. Not much to say other than they were very active and fun groups to be in.
Null
I was in this group for a month or two until the ownership was transferred to Nobility after T3h Hack3r sold it. It's a group filled with very intelligent people, and most of their activity is done off-site last time I was in the group. I suppose I was a part of Vinnie's old condom.
I'm not sure what goes on in the subforum anymore so I don't have anything else to say.
AnimeFAN!
This group is a safe-haven for Anime otakus and weaboos where we can have friendly discussions about anime and the like. The group was extremely active when I first joined, but the activity has died down severely ever since Assault announced that the group is on sale. The members are very friendly and I have become befriended many of them.
Here are the members that I feel deserve to be publicly named for playing a role in my journey on HF in no certain order. I will also provide feedback to these members.
All of the members here have a place in my heart.
Paradoxum
You're the only person I will say serves as a role-model for me. You're probably one of the best members HF has ever produced. I'm glad I am able to converse with you to this day. You have helped this forum so much by leading arguably the best usergroup, by leading the HJT/MRT on both HF and SF, and by serving as a Staff member here. And because of your intelligence and professionalism, I look up to you.
Deities
We never really conversed with each other much because you quit HF not long after I joined, but I appreciate you for accepting me into The Alliance.
I also remember the reputation you gave me by heart ^_^
"Too short to manage, but we are able to jump. "
AlbinoShadow
You're the first friend I ever made on HF. We were both recruited to The Alliance at the same time, and also became Ub3r almost on the same day. You're a great and intelligent guy, and it shocks me that we're the same age. I'm sad that you left HF, but I'm sure it's for the best.
Analog/Raptured
You're the second friend I ever made on HF. You're very easy to talk to, as well as outgoing. Maybe we'll meet one day because we live pretty close to each other and are both outdoorsman.
Hexicidal
We've been friends for many years now. I really like you as an individual because of your maturity and intellect. As for your groups, I feel you should take a more stern approach if you seriously wish for success for your groups.
T3h Hack3r
We've never really talked that much, but I really like you as a member. I appreciate the efforts you put forward for leading the MRT and The Alliance, as well as the efforts you put forward during your time as a Mentor and Staff Member. Thanks for buying me Ub3r as well -- it was an unexpected gift. ^_^
RDCA
Just like all the MRT members, you're very intelligent. I remember taking the lessons you offered in The Alliance and they were very well done. You grew up to be an asset to this community.
Brandenx781 AKA Brenden
Your story on how you became a MRT member and teacher is very inspirational. I wish you stayed on the forum!
Auron
A friend I made within The Alliance. You're a good guy. I still remember that signature you made (I think) of The Alliance members of how we would look like if we were black. It gave me a good laugh.
D3xus
Very smart and mature individual and a great asset to the forum itself. I appreciate your efforts with the Wiki and your past efforts as a Staff member. iOS beast, last I recall.
Viral Dragon
Because of the help you provided me within the WHH section, you became the reason why I wanted to join The Alliance. I wanted to become a helpful member just like you. You lurk a lot now, but I appreciate all that you have done for the forums, from leading groups to your role as a Staff member. I also enjoyed the PHP lessons you hosted in The Alliance.
CarrotMilk
Great guy. I enjoyed the PHP lessons you hosted in The Alliance. I miss your carrots.
Sir
Your efforts with the HF news is unparalleled. I don't like Omniscient's decision on closing your account, especially considering all that you have done for the News.
Grin
It saddens me that you went down as a scammer. I enjoyed reading your posts as you were very active.
ven0m
We embarked on a journey at the same time, but you were the one who made it. I'll make it...eventually. 😝
Wafflemonger
It was fun working with you in the WHH sector in The Alliance. I'm glad I recruited you. You're an intelligent guy.
Overall, I really enjoyed my journey on this forum. I'm glad I came here.
Now I am saying the following with the understanding that I may be sanctioned for speaking out. Omniscient, you're the most capable forum owner I've come across, and I appreciate all that you do for the forum. I just hope that one day you can keep your emotions in check so that you can stop making brash decisions such as closing a member because they piss you off. I know you're working on this which I'm glad about. I think it should be said that I don't agree with your decision to close the MRT with 'elitism' being one of the reasons. In my opinion from what I see and know, that is absolutely ridiculous. Also your approach with the group during its existence, I feel was wrong. You should have listened to what the MRT leaders wanted with a more understanding mindset. I exist in the community that these MRT members come from and fully understand why they operate in the way that they do, and why it is needed. Now that the group is gone, the WHH section has lost a lot of credibility as well as capable members.
![[Image: npafFhp.gif]](https://i.imgur.com/npafFhp.gif)
