Wikipedia:Blocks and bans

This page is a policy on the Simple English Wikipedia. Many people agree with it. They see it as a standard idea that all users should normally follow. When changing this page (except for minor errors like typos), please check that other people agree with your changes. Use the talk page when you are not sure or when you want to suggest a change.

Shortcuts WP:BB WP:BLOCK WP:BAN

A block is a measure used to protect Wikipedia from being used badly, or from being changed in ways that are against the rules. Once blocks are over, they become history unless problems recur. Blocks can apply to a user account, an IP, or a range of IPs. A number of automated features identify unblocked usage which apparently should be blocked; these are known as autoblocks and can be quickly rectified if incorrect.

Administrators can block users for many reasons. When a user is blocked, they will not be able to change Wikipedia, but can still read Wikipedia. A block or ban applies to the person, not the account, unless the block or ban says differently.