These rules are disclosed to clarify the various responsibilities of all community members here on CSDIAI Members Forum. They shall be adhered to by everyone to ensure that our board runs smoothly and provides a fun and productive experience for all of our community members and visitors.

1. Professional Conduct

   1. All members are expected to maintain a courteous and respectful tone in discussions. Personal attacks, sarcasm, name-calling, threats, and derogatory language will not be tolerated, regardless of the subject matter or provocation. #
   2. Debate is encouraged when grounded in evidence and professional reasoning. However, always focus on the content of ideas, not the individuals presenting them. #
   3. Text-based communication lacks tone and context. If you're offering criticism or correction, do so with professionalism and empathy.
      
      Example:
      
      • "I disagree with the method described due to chain of custody concerns. Here's an alternative..."
      • "That's a terrible idea. Anyone doing that shouldn't be in the field."
      
      #

2. Content Scope and Relevance

   1. All posts should relate to the forensic sciences, investigative support, professional development, or CSDIAI operations. Avoid unrelated political, religious, or personal topics unless explicitly relevant to a forensic context.
      
      Examples of relevant topics:
      • Latent print processing techniques
      • Digital forensics case law updates
      • Equipment Reviews (e.g., new AFIS platforms)
      • Forensics-related legislation or training
      
      #
   2. Post your questions, insights, and resources in the correct section. If unsure, ask a moderator. #
   3. Do not take over a thread to discuss an unrelated topic. Start a new discussion instead. #

3. Confidentiality, Legal and Ethical Boundaries

   1. Do not share real case details that are confidential, ongoing, or under legal restriction, even if anonymized. #
   2. Do not upload fingerprints, images, crime scene photos, or documents that contain PII (personally identifiable information), unless those are open-source materials shared with appropriate rights and agency approvals. #
   3. Do not quote or share another member’s post externally without their permission. Screenshots of forum content must not be distributed publicly. #
   4. This forum is not a substitute for official investigative collaboration channels or evidence exchange systems. #

4. Accuracy, Integrity and Sources

   1. Share information responsibly. If you’re unsure about a claim or data point, indicate that. #
   2. When referencing studies, protocols, or legal rulings, include links or citations. #
   3. Unsupported claims, debunked theories, or non-scientific approaches to forensic work have no place here. #

5. Account Use and Identity

   1. Users may maintain only one account unless explicitly authorized by forum administrators. #
   2. If the forum requires or recommends real name display for transparency, comply accordingly. #
   3. Do not impersonate other members, officials, or external parties. #

6. Unauthorized Commercial Activity

   1. This forum is not a marketplace. Do not promote products, services, or training events unless pre-approved. #
   2. Members may share product experiences if asked or relevant (e.g., discussing fingerprint powders), but unsolicited promotion is not allowed. #
   3. If vendor access is granted, it will be in designated areas and must be transparently disclosed. #

7. Moderator Authority and Disciplinary Actions

   1. Moderators and administrators may move, edit, or delete posts that violate these guidelines. #
   2. Users may receive private warnings for first-time or minor violations. Repeat or serious violations may result in suspension or a permanent ban. #
   3. If you believe an action taken against you was in error, you may appeal to the administrator via private message. #
   4. Moderation Examples
      • Moving a misplaced thread to the appropriate category
      • Editing a post to remove sensitive data
      • Issuing a warning for inappropriate tone
      #

8. Forum Access and Membership Requirements

   1. Access is limited to active CSDIAI members and approved invitees. #
   2. If your membership lapses or is terminated, your forum access may be revoked. #
   3. You are responsible for your login credentials. Do not share your password or allow others to post under your name. #

9. Events and Announcements

   1. Only board members, committee chairs, or authorized moderators may post official CSDIAI notices. #
   2. Members may share relevant forensic events, conferences, or webinars but must obtain moderator approval first for non-CSDIAI events. #
   3. Use caution when linking to external websites. Include a brief description of the content so members know what to expect. #

10. Feedback and Community Development

    1. Suggestions to improve the forum should be posted in the “Forum Feedback” section or sent privately to moderators. #
    2. If there are additional functions (e.g., file sharing, tagging, subgroups), suggest them respectfully for evaluation. #

11. Enforcement Summary

    1. Violation	Typical Response	Possible Consequences
       First minor rule violation	Private Warning	None Unless Repeated
       Posting Confidential Data	Immediate Removal of Offending Content	Temporary or Permanent Ban
       Harassment or Threats	Investigation	Ban pending Disciplinary Investigation (See bylaws)
       Repeated off-topic posts	Moderation and Content Relocation	Temporary Suspension

       #
    2. CSDIAI Constitution and Bylaws and applicable CSDIAI Policies and Procedures shall govern in all cases. This table is meant only to provide examples of possible cases where enforcement of these rules may be needed. #

12. Use Constitutes Agreement

    1. Use of this forum implies your acceptance of these guidelines. These rules may be updated as needed by the CSDIAI Board or Forum Administrators. Continued participation requires adherence to the most current version. #