Chat Room Etiquette
This list is older than most of today's chat apps — and it has aged remarkably well. "Netiquette" is really just common courtesy carried online, and it's a big part of what keeps #Makati a friendly place to hang out. If you're new to chatting, these few habits will take you a long way — here and anywhere else online.
Do not give out any personal information
For your security, never give out personal information such as your street address, phone number, etc., to strangers. Let your private information remain private — you wouldn't know the real intentions of people you chat with online.
Do not open links or attachments from unsolicited messages
Most viruses are spread through chat messages or emails. Never open any link or attachment unless you trust the sender and they explicitly tell you to. Be careful not to click web links if you don't know the sender.
Do not type in all CAPITAL LETTERS
Typing in all caps is considered yelling, and many people find it annoying. It may also get you kicked or banned in most chat rooms. Make sure your caps lock key is turned off.
Observe chat room and server rules
Most chat rooms have rules of their own. Read the topic before engaging in conversation. Some channels require that you use only the English language, otherwise you risk being kicked or banned.
Don't flood the chat room
Repeating texts, questions, or links — "flooding" — is really annoying and will likely get you kicked or banned. Once is enough; everyone can read it the first time.
Avoid using colors unless necessary
The wrong combination of colors can be hard on the eyes. Other users may have a different background than yours, and changing your text color might make it unreadable for them.
If you want to PM someone, ask first
Most people won't entertain unsolicited private messages. Others may feel you're invading their privacy and add you to their "ignore" list if you send private messages without asking permission.
Respect other chatters
If you want to be respected, show respect. If you disagree with someone, give your honest opinion in a respectful manner. People don't like to hear bigotry or hatred in a chatroom.
If you're a channel operator, don't abuse your powers
Only kick or ban users when necessary. Don't kick anyone "just for fun" or ban others for personal reasons. Follow the operator's guidelines — you're there to keep order and enforce the rules.
Most of all, have fun!
Do we need to explain this? 🙂
None of this is unique to IRC — it's the same courtesy that makes any community pleasant, whether it's a channel from 2001 or a server today. Follow it and you'll fit right into #Makati. New to the commands? Start with the IRC basics.