TechInfoDepot:Administrators/Misuse of tools section


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 * Due to its importance and relevance, this section is reflected both in the main "Admin" page, and the "Tools" subpage. To keep both versions up to date and prevent "drift", it's included via transclusion.


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Misusing the is considered a serious issue. The administrative tools are provided to trusted users for maintenance and other tasks, and should be used with thought. Serious misuse may result in sanction or even their removal.

Common situations where avoiding tool use is often required:
 * Conflict of interest or non-neutrality – Administrators should not normally use their tools in matters in which they are personally involved (for example, in a content dispute in which they are a party). See Involved admins.


 * Communal norms or policies – When a policy or communal norm is clear that tools should not be used, then tools should not be used without an explanation that shows the matter has been considered, and why a (rare) exception is genuinely considered reasonable.


 * Reversing the actions of other administrators – Only in a manner that respects the admin whose action is involved, and (usually) after consultation.


 * Reinstating an admin action that has already been reversed (sometimes known as "wheel warring") – Responses have included Arbitration and desysopping even the first time.

See for these and for the very few exceptions.

In most cases even when use of the tools is reasonable, if a reasonable doubt may exist, it is frequently better to ask an independent administrator to review and (if justified) take the action. This is a matter of judgment if necessary.