Server Rules
Posted: Mon Sep 02, 2024 2:19 am
0. COMMON COURTESYㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
All individuals who opt to join the Bone County: Stories community are required to meticulously read and comprehend the established rules. It is of utmost significance to fully grasp that our diligent efforts have been invested in providing an extensive account of each rule, accompanied by illustrative examples. However, it is an insurmountable task to encompass the entire breadth of conceivable situations within a world where boundless creativity flourishes. Consequently, it is essential to recognize that the rules do not adhere to a standardized system of punishments, as each situation possesses its own unique qualities and circumstances.
During Out-of-Character interactions, it is imperative that all players maintain an unwavering sense of respect and composure when engaging with others. The inclusive nature of our community dictates that every player, irrespective of their background or identity, feels wholeheartedly welcomed and embraced. We strictly forbid any form of discrimination occurring outside the confines of the game, and should such instances transgress the boundaries of severity, they may result in a ban from our community.
Adherence to the instructions issued by administrators is paramount, even in the event of personal disagreement. We implore all players to comply with administrative decisions, and in cases where a player firmly believes an administrator's judgment to be erroneous, there exists an avenue for review through the esteemed members of our Staff Management team.
Under no circumstances shall the act of failing to roleplay a situation be tolerated. It is incumbent upon every player to fully immerse themselves in the art of roleplaying at all times. In the event that a player violates this crucial tenet during the course of a scenario, it is imperative to bring the ongoing roleplay to its natural conclusion before reporting the incident for further evaluation (Roleplay first, report after). Furthermore, it is mandatory for all players to effectively roleplay any injuries sustained by their characters or any accidents encountered while operating vehicles, even if such incidents occur in isolation.
To further illuminate the matter, let us examine a few explicit examples that encompass violations of this rule:
1. OWNERSHIP & ACCOUNTABILITY OF ACCOUNTSㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Players are required to ensure that their account and IP address are not utilized in violation of the server regulations. In instances where an Internet network or hardware is shared among multiple players (e.g., family members, friends), if one player violates the server rules, it may result in the entire shared network being subjected to a ban until the banned player successfully appeals their punishment.
The transfer of ownership for game accounts in Bone County: Stories is strictly prohibited, whether through trade or gifting. Under no circumstances should players share their accounts with others. Players bear responsibility for any activities that occur on their accounts.
2. CHARACTER CREATION & QUALITY
When choosing character names, it is crucial to ensure their realism and avoid any resemblance to real-world names or famous individuals. For instance, "Carlos_Northest" would be an appropriate name, whereas "Chris_Hemsworth" would not be acceptable. This guideline extends to troll names, such as "Ben_Dover." It is also important to note that modifying an existing name by adding random characters to create a similar name is strictly prohibited. For instance, if "Carlos_Northest" already exists, creating "CarIos_Northest" (with an i) is not permissible.
Players are granted the freedom to partake in acts of scamming and deception directed at each other In-Character, as this opens up avenues for exploring the ramifications through the lens of Law Enforcement. In the event that a player is apprehended by Law Enforcement, namely the representatives of the San Andreas State Government, they may find themselves burdened with debt obligations imposed by the governing body and/or suffer the forfeiture of their hard-earned assets.
However, it is imperative to emphasize that engaging in deceit or fraudulent activities targeting fellow players Out-of-Character with the intention of acquiring their assets is strictly forbidden. A prime example of such prohibited behavior is when one player deliberately misleads another during an Out-of-Character conversation, making false assurances that they have no intention to scam, or cunningly coaxing them into executing a command that knowingly results in asset theft. It is crucial to highlight that players must refrain from reaffirming Out-of-Character that they won't engage in any fraudulent activities, as such acts would insinuate a form of metagaming that undermines the integrity of the server.
Houses and Businesses are protected under this rule. House / Business scams are strictly prohibited.
Players are granted the freedom to partake in acts of scamming and deception involving illegally obtained weapons and magazines / ammo cartidges.
Players are allowed to scam valuables / cash worth up to : 10,000$ + 2 guns
Minimum character hours required for all parties involved is 5. Scamming / Deception that involved any character that has less than 5 hours is prohibited.
In the case of weapons, magazines, and ammo cartidges, the value of the item will be the one presented in the Strawman scheme prices.
It is strictly prohibited for players to engage in the transfer of assets to other players without a legitimate In-Character motive, whether it involves trading or loaning. The primary objective behind this rule is to ensure fair gameplay and maintain a balanced environment within the community. Thus, it is important to note that simply gifting all of one's account assets away due to a personal hiatus or departure from the community is not permissible.
Furthermore, players are explicitly forbidden from giving away the majority of their assets, except in specific situations such as event raffles, event giveaways, or general giveaways that do not involve a significant portion of one's overall possessions.
This rule aims to prevent the potential exploitation of the game's economy and preserve the integrity of the in-game experience for all players.
Under no circumstances are players permitted to partake in or imply the exchange of in-game assets for assets located outside of the server. This includes but is not limited to real-life currency, other games, game skins, or any other forms of tangible or intangible assets.
The rationale behind this prohibition is to maintain the integrity of the game's economy, discourage unfair advantages, and promote a level playing field for all players. By preventing the illicit exchange of assets between the game and the real world, the administrators seek to uphold a balanced and authentic gaming experience.
In summary, the prohibition against transferring assets to other players without a valid In-Character motive and engaging in real-world trading serves as a safeguard to preserve the
fairness, balance, and integrity of the game. Players must recognize and respect these rules to foster a positive and enjoyable gaming atmosphere for all players.
3. CHEATING & EXPLOITS
NOTE: YOU ARE ALLOWED TO USE A CUSTOM CROSSHAIR.
To preserve the integrity and fairness of gameplay, players are strictly prohibited from modifying their game files to gain an unfair advantage over other players. Any alterations made to game files that provide an undue edge or exploit vulnerabilities are considered violations of the server's rules. This includes, but is not limited to, the following actions:
Modifying the handling files of cars to alter their intended performance characteristics, including speed, acceleration, turning, and other attributes. Such modifications undermine the intended gameplay balance and fairness, compromising the overall experience for all players.
Replacing vehicles and weapons with mods that directly provide an unfair advantage, such as enlarged weapons or vehicles with superior attributes. This type of modification grants an unfair edge over other players, unbalancing the game mechanics and compromising fair competition.
Substituting gun sound mods with more distinct sounds that may offer circumstantial advantages, such as improved reaction time or enhanced audibility in specific weather conditions. These modifications create an unfair audio advantage that is inconsistent with the intended gameplay mechanics.
Here are a few examples of unintended mechanics/bugs that should be reported:
macros, unless they have received explicit approval from the staff. An example of an allowed macro would be;
Text macros designed specifically for roleplay purposes, ensuring that they do not have any adverse effects on other players' experiences or disrupt the gameplay environment.
We take these rules seriously, as they are crucial to maintaining a fair and enjoyable gaming environment for all players. It is important to respect and adhere to these guidelines to promote a positive and inclusive gaming community. Should you have any further inquiries or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated staff, who are more than willing to provide you with any necessary support.
4. DISRUPTING SERVER OPERATIONS & RULE BREACH AWARENESS
It is of utmost importance that players consistently demonstrate their commitment to being positive contributors to the community, upholding a respectful demeanor towards everyone they encounter. By fostering a culture of positivity, we emphasize the need for players to adhere to the established rules, strive towards improving their roleplaying skills, offer assistance to fellow members, and refrain from engaging in any deliberate actions aimed at ruining the experiences of others, be it staff or players.
At Bone County: Stories, we maintain a strict stance against any form of Out-of-Character intimidation tactics that may hinder players from fully engaging in our server. This includes, but is not limited to, instances of OOC harassment or any other means employed with the intention of diminishing the quality of someone's experience within the community.
To provide further clarity, players are expressly prohibited from the following actions:
In the spirit of fostering positive relationships and maintaining a harmonious environment, Bone County: Stories assures players that we do not seek to undermine existing friendships. However, it is important for players to exercise their means and make thoughtful choices regarding their involvement in certain situations, as well as the information they choose to disclose. It is crucial to recognize that these choices may carry consequences.
Players are encouraged to report instances of severe rule violations, which may include but are not limited to:
To clarify, this policy extends beyond overt promotional activities. We understand that the enthusiasm and passion within our community may naturally give rise to conversations about other roleplay communities, but it is crucial to avoid any actions that could potentially divert attention or resources away from BC:S.
By implementing and enforcing these guidelines, we aim to create an atmosphere that not only prioritizes BC:S but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional and uninterrupted gaming environment for all our valued players. We kindly request your understanding and cooperation in adhering to this policy to ensure the continued success and growth of our vibrant community.
5. FEAR ROLEPLAY (FRP)
Fear Roleplay is a concept that emphasizes the importance of exhibiting appropriate care and genuine concern to ensure the safety and preservation of your character's life In-Character. Our overarching goal is to establish and maintain a harmonious and balanced gameplay experience through the implementation of this rule, recognizing that there may be instances where it deviates from the dynamics of real-life situations.
In order to cultivate a sense of realism and immersion, it is crucial for players who find themselves in direct peril to fully engage in roleplay by embodying a palpable fear and adhering to the demands presented to them. This pertains to circumstances where the imminent danger manifests itself in the form of a firearm being aimed directly at the player's head or from close proximity by any other player involved in the game.
It is worth noting that the commitment to fear roleplay persists even if an assailant momentarily lowers their weapon to engage in typing or other non-combative actions. Individuals who were
previously subjected to fear roleplay are expected to sustain the mindset and behaviors associated with this state.
To ensure the integrity of fear roleplay, it is imperative that players refrain from engaging in actions that indicate a lack of genuine fear. For instance, fleeing on foot, riding a bicycle, or operating an unpowered vehicle while being targeted by a weapon at close range would be deemed as insufficient demonstration of fear. Likewise, repeatedly driving into an active shootout without the intention of seeking cover or making a strategic escape does not align with the expected standards of fear roleplay.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that certain circumstances may afford players an opportunity to respond and assert themselves. This includes situations where they are situated inside a powered vehicle, have already drawn a weapon and are facing their attacker, or when their assailant's line of sight is obstructed by a physical object, thus creating a window for potential action.
By upholding the principles of fear roleplay, we strive to foster a more immersive, authentic, and engaging gaming experience where players are encouraged to embody the emotions and responses that one would expect in the face of genuine danger.
It is through the collective adherence to these guidelines that we can maintain the integrity of the gameplay environment and ensure the enjoyment and satisfaction of all players.
All individuals who opt to join the Bone County: Stories community are required to meticulously read and comprehend the established rules. It is of utmost significance to fully grasp that our diligent efforts have been invested in providing an extensive account of each rule, accompanied by illustrative examples. However, it is an insurmountable task to encompass the entire breadth of conceivable situations within a world where boundless creativity flourishes. Consequently, it is essential to recognize that the rules do not adhere to a standardized system of punishments, as each situation possesses its own unique qualities and circumstances.
During Out-of-Character interactions, it is imperative that all players maintain an unwavering sense of respect and composure when engaging with others. The inclusive nature of our community dictates that every player, irrespective of their background or identity, feels wholeheartedly welcomed and embraced. We strictly forbid any form of discrimination occurring outside the confines of the game, and should such instances transgress the boundaries of severity, they may result in a ban from our community.
Adherence to the instructions issued by administrators is paramount, even in the event of personal disagreement. We implore all players to comply with administrative decisions, and in cases where a player firmly believes an administrator's judgment to be erroneous, there exists an avenue for review through the esteemed members of our Staff Management team.
Under no circumstances shall the act of failing to roleplay a situation be tolerated. It is incumbent upon every player to fully immerse themselves in the art of roleplaying at all times. In the event that a player violates this crucial tenet during the course of a scenario, it is imperative to bring the ongoing roleplay to its natural conclusion before reporting the incident for further evaluation (Roleplay first, report after). Furthermore, it is mandatory for all players to effectively roleplay any injuries sustained by their characters or any accidents encountered while operating vehicles, even if such incidents occur in isolation.
To further illuminate the matter, let us examine a few explicit examples that encompass violations of this rule:
- Engaging in the act of insulting another player through private messaging or Out-of-Character chat
- Persistently engaging in the disruptive act of spamming.
- Demonstrating a blatant disregard for an administrator's decision or ruling.
- Neglecting to engage in the act of roleplaying a car crash, unless it becomes evidently clear that the crash was a direct result of desync issues.
- Deliberately going AFK with the sole intention of evading the commitment to roleplay or avoiding the repercussions that arise from in-game actions.
- Using /helpup more than once per situation
1. OWNERSHIP & ACCOUNTABILITY OF ACCOUNTSㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Players are required to ensure that their account and IP address are not utilized in violation of the server regulations. In instances where an Internet network or hardware is shared among multiple players (e.g., family members, friends), if one player violates the server rules, it may result in the entire shared network being subjected to a ban until the banned player successfully appeals their punishment.
The transfer of ownership for game accounts in Bone County: Stories is strictly prohibited, whether through trade or gifting. Under no circumstances should players share their accounts with others. Players bear responsibility for any activities that occur on their accounts.
Punishment: Depending on the context and severity of the situation, penalties can range from a warning to a permanent ban. In the case of linked accounts, if it can be verified that two or more individuals are distinct entities.
2. CHARACTER CREATION & QUALITY
- CHARACTER NAMES:
When choosing character names, it is crucial to ensure their realism and avoid any resemblance to real-world names or famous individuals. For instance, "Carlos_Northest" would be an appropriate name, whereas "Chris_Hemsworth" would not be acceptable. This guideline extends to troll names, such as "Ben_Dover." It is also important to note that modifying an existing name by adding random characters to create a similar name is strictly prohibited. For instance, if "Carlos_Northest" already exists, creating "CarIos_Northest" (with an i) is not permissible.
Punishment: Depending on the frequency of violations, the player's willingness to comply, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from a verbal warning to an indefinite ban. Additionally, the player will be provided with a complimentary name change by the staff member in charge, if necessary.
- SCAMMING & DECEPTION:
Players are granted the freedom to partake in acts of scamming and deception directed at each other In-Character, as this opens up avenues for exploring the ramifications through the lens of Law Enforcement. In the event that a player is apprehended by Law Enforcement, namely the representatives of the San Andreas State Government, they may find themselves burdened with debt obligations imposed by the governing body and/or suffer the forfeiture of their hard-earned assets.
However, it is imperative to emphasize that engaging in deceit or fraudulent activities targeting fellow players Out-of-Character with the intention of acquiring their assets is strictly forbidden. A prime example of such prohibited behavior is when one player deliberately misleads another during an Out-of-Character conversation, making false assurances that they have no intention to scam, or cunningly coaxing them into executing a command that knowingly results in asset theft. It is crucial to highlight that players must refrain from reaffirming Out-of-Character that they won't engage in any fraudulent activities, as such acts would insinuate a form of metagaming that undermines the integrity of the server.
Houses and Businesses are protected under this rule. House / Business scams are strictly prohibited.
Players are granted the freedom to partake in acts of scamming and deception involving illegally obtained weapons and magazines / ammo cartidges.
Players are allowed to scam valuables / cash worth up to : 10,000$ + 2 guns
Minimum character hours required for all parties involved is 5. Scamming / Deception that involved any character that has less than 5 hours is prohibited.
In the case of weapons, magazines, and ammo cartidges, the value of the item will be the one presented in the Strawman scheme prices.
Punishment: Depending on the frequency of violations, the player's willingness to comply, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from a verbal warning to an indefinite ban.
- Transfer of Assets to Other Players:
It is strictly prohibited for players to engage in the transfer of assets to other players without a legitimate In-Character motive, whether it involves trading or loaning. The primary objective behind this rule is to ensure fair gameplay and maintain a balanced environment within the community. Thus, it is important to note that simply gifting all of one's account assets away due to a personal hiatus or departure from the community is not permissible.
Furthermore, players are explicitly forbidden from giving away the majority of their assets, except in specific situations such as event raffles, event giveaways, or general giveaways that do not involve a significant portion of one's overall possessions.
This rule aims to prevent the potential exploitation of the game's economy and preserve the integrity of the in-game experience for all players.
Punishment: Depending on the player's willingness to comply, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from a verbal warning to an indefinite ban.
- REAL WORLD TRADING:
Under no circumstances are players permitted to partake in or imply the exchange of in-game assets for assets located outside of the server. This includes but is not limited to real-life currency, other games, game skins, or any other forms of tangible or intangible assets.
The rationale behind this prohibition is to maintain the integrity of the game's economy, discourage unfair advantages, and promote a level playing field for all players. By preventing the illicit exchange of assets between the game and the real world, the administrators seek to uphold a balanced and authentic gaming experience.
In summary, the prohibition against transferring assets to other players without a valid In-Character motive and engaging in real-world trading serves as a safeguard to preserve the
fairness, balance, and integrity of the game. Players must recognize and respect these rules to foster a positive and enjoyable gaming atmosphere for all players.
Punishment: Indefinite ban, and assets wipe if the banned player has made a successful ban appeal.
3. CHEATING & EXPLOITS
- CHEATING:
NOTE: YOU ARE ALLOWED TO USE A CUSTOM CROSSHAIR.
Punishment: Permanent ban.
- MODIFYING GAME FILES:
To preserve the integrity and fairness of gameplay, players are strictly prohibited from modifying their game files to gain an unfair advantage over other players. Any alterations made to game files that provide an undue edge or exploit vulnerabilities are considered violations of the server's rules. This includes, but is not limited to, the following actions:
Modifying the handling files of cars to alter their intended performance characteristics, including speed, acceleration, turning, and other attributes. Such modifications undermine the intended gameplay balance and fairness, compromising the overall experience for all players.
Replacing vehicles and weapons with mods that directly provide an unfair advantage, such as enlarged weapons or vehicles with superior attributes. This type of modification grants an unfair edge over other players, unbalancing the game mechanics and compromising fair competition.
Substituting gun sound mods with more distinct sounds that may offer circumstantial advantages, such as improved reaction time or enhanced audibility in specific weather conditions. These modifications create an unfair audio advantage that is inconsistent with the intended gameplay mechanics.
Punishment: Depending on the player's willingness to comply, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from a verbal warning to an indefinite ban.
- EXPLOITING:
Here are a few examples of unintended mechanics/bugs that should be reported:
- Frisking a player while both of you are too far from each other.
- Using an animation to make your character run faster.
- Exploiting glitches to go through an obstacle.
Punishment: Depending on the player's willingness to comply, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from a verbal warning to an indefinite ban. Assets will be wiped in the case that the exploit was done to gain in-game assets/currency.
- MACROS:
macros, unless they have received explicit approval from the staff. An example of an allowed macro would be;
Text macros designed specifically for roleplay purposes, ensuring that they do not have any adverse effects on other players' experiences or disrupt the gameplay environment.
We take these rules seriously, as they are crucial to maintaining a fair and enjoyable gaming environment for all players. It is important to respect and adhere to these guidelines to promote a positive and inclusive gaming community. Should you have any further inquiries or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated staff, who are more than willing to provide you with any necessary support.
4. DISRUPTING SERVER OPERATIONS & RULE BREACH AWARENESS
- DISTURBING SERVER OPERATIONS:
It is of utmost importance that players consistently demonstrate their commitment to being positive contributors to the community, upholding a respectful demeanor towards everyone they encounter. By fostering a culture of positivity, we emphasize the need for players to adhere to the established rules, strive towards improving their roleplaying skills, offer assistance to fellow members, and refrain from engaging in any deliberate actions aimed at ruining the experiences of others, be it staff or players.
At Bone County: Stories, we maintain a strict stance against any form of Out-of-Character intimidation tactics that may hinder players from fully engaging in our server. This includes, but is not limited to, instances of OOC harassment or any other means employed with the intention of diminishing the quality of someone's experience within the community.
To provide further clarity, players are expressly prohibited from the following actions:
- Engaging directly or knowingly involving themselves in situations where doxxing (the unauthorized disclosure of personal information) or harassment of community members or staff members is taking place.
- Engaging directly or knowingly involving themselves in situations where cyber threats, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against BC:S Platforms, community members, staff, or instances of account theft, are occurring.
- Engaging directly or knowingly involving themselves in situations where the distribution of cheats or malicious media content is taking place.
- Engaging directly or knowingly involving themselves in situations where severe breaches of the rules, such as Mass Deathmatching, Mass Metagaming, Cheating, and other similar activities, are being committed.
In the spirit of fostering positive relationships and maintaining a harmonious environment, Bone County: Stories assures players that we do not seek to undermine existing friendships. However, it is important for players to exercise their means and make thoughtful choices regarding their involvement in certain situations, as well as the information they choose to disclose. It is crucial to recognize that these choices may carry consequences.
Players are encouraged to report instances of severe rule violations, which may include but are not limited to:
- Cheating.
- Ban evasion.
- Mass MG (Metagaming / DM (Deathmatching).
- Harassment of community members or staff.
- Cyber-threats or attacks.
- Deliberate and malicious rule-breaking activities that are typically planned in private chats or other private settings.
Punishment: The range of potential punishments encompasses a broad spectrum, extending from the issuance of verbal warnings to the imposition of permanent bans. It is important to recognize that these situations are inherently complex and multifaceted, often necessitating comprehensive and meticulous investigations conducted by the designated staff members. When determining the appropriate course of action, the severity of the punishment predominantly hinges upon various critical aspects, such as the contextual backdrop and the gravity of the particular incident. Furthermore, additional factors will be duly taken into account, including the frequency of similar occurrences, as well as the individual's standing and reputation within the community. By carefully considering all relevant constituents, the decision-makers strive to ensure a fair and just resolution that upholds the principles of justice, accountability, and community welfare.
- BAN EVASION:
Punishment: Depending on the player's willingness to comply, how many times it has occurred, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from an indefinite ban to a permanent ban.
- ADVERTISING OTHER COMMUNITIES:
To clarify, this policy extends beyond overt promotional activities. We understand that the enthusiasm and passion within our community may naturally give rise to conversations about other roleplay communities, but it is crucial to avoid any actions that could potentially divert attention or resources away from BC:S.
By implementing and enforcing these guidelines, we aim to create an atmosphere that not only prioritizes BC:S but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional and uninterrupted gaming environment for all our valued players. We kindly request your understanding and cooperation in adhering to this policy to ensure the continued success and growth of our vibrant community.
5. FEAR ROLEPLAY (FRP)
Fear Roleplay is a concept that emphasizes the importance of exhibiting appropriate care and genuine concern to ensure the safety and preservation of your character's life In-Character. Our overarching goal is to establish and maintain a harmonious and balanced gameplay experience through the implementation of this rule, recognizing that there may be instances where it deviates from the dynamics of real-life situations.
In order to cultivate a sense of realism and immersion, it is crucial for players who find themselves in direct peril to fully engage in roleplay by embodying a palpable fear and adhering to the demands presented to them. This pertains to circumstances where the imminent danger manifests itself in the form of a firearm being aimed directly at the player's head or from close proximity by any other player involved in the game.
It is worth noting that the commitment to fear roleplay persists even if an assailant momentarily lowers their weapon to engage in typing or other non-combative actions. Individuals who were
previously subjected to fear roleplay are expected to sustain the mindset and behaviors associated with this state.
To ensure the integrity of fear roleplay, it is imperative that players refrain from engaging in actions that indicate a lack of genuine fear. For instance, fleeing on foot, riding a bicycle, or operating an unpowered vehicle while being targeted by a weapon at close range would be deemed as insufficient demonstration of fear. Likewise, repeatedly driving into an active shootout without the intention of seeking cover or making a strategic escape does not align with the expected standards of fear roleplay.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that certain circumstances may afford players an opportunity to respond and assert themselves. This includes situations where they are situated inside a powered vehicle, have already drawn a weapon and are facing their attacker, or when their assailant's line of sight is obstructed by a physical object, thus creating a window for potential action.
By upholding the principles of fear roleplay, we strive to foster a more immersive, authentic, and engaging gaming experience where players are encouraged to embody the emotions and responses that one would expect in the face of genuine danger.
It is through the collective adherence to these guidelines that we can maintain the integrity of the gameplay environment and ensure the enjoyment and satisfaction of all players.
Punishment: Depending on the player's willingness to comply, how many times it has occurred, and the context of the situation, punishments may range from an admin jail of 60 minutes (varies) to an indefinite ban.