Privacy concerns from [split] AF Hall of Shame (Post Edition)

[Angrboda]

Information is the stock and trade of a moderator. It's how the smooth operation of the forum is kept smooth and secure. (Would you complain about them finding a sock account or troll this way.) Generally, I keep such info on a need to know basis though, and don't broadcast the fact, as it can be unsettling to some. I keep no secrets, but I know that there is information "out there" that an internet sleuth could find that I'm not altogether comfortable with them finding.

This was not for the purposes of finding a sock or a troll was it. I'd love to know if there is a legitimate reason beyond rayaans own amusement. Cos I aint fucking amused.

Identifying those for whom such research will profitably reveal improper conduct of a member can only be retro-actively identified, after the fact. I do a lot of log searches as an IRC moderator that turn up nothing relevant; however, it's important that I find the ones that are relevant. I can only do that by collecting the data, then sieving it to determine if it's relevant (say a ban evader, using a slightly disguised host mask to avoid detection). It sounds scary, and perhaps what Rayaan does is not innocent; I have no way of knowing. What I do know is you research first, then discard the result second.