User:Proxy blocker
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jan 6, 2005: This particular proxy blocker is currently disabled on Wikipedia.
It seems that a different one, meta:Proxy blocking, was put in place on Mar 28, 2005. See User:SORBS DNSBL.
Whenever you connect to Wikipedia to edit a page, the Wikipedia servers scan your IP address for an open proxy server -- that is, one which anyone can connect to. These open proxies are usually left open accidentally by their operators. Crackers scan the Internet for open proxies, and publish their addresses. Vandals and trolls on Wikipedia often used these open proxies to evade bans, since they obscure the actual IP address. In February 2004, we decided to block all such proxies from editing.
- If you don't want to reveal your IP address to the general public, please log in rather than using a proxy.
- If you have a serious need for anonymity, for example to hide from a repressive government, then be advised that proxy servers will not provide the level of security you need.
- If you are afraid someone will discover your workplace based on your ISP, please remember that unless your employer is paying you to edit Wikipedia, you should not be using their time and equipment to do so.
When detected, open proxies will be blocked indefinitely. If you were using a proxy which was previously open but is now secure, please contact an administrator to have the block lifted.
If you have any questions or comments about this policy, then please email the WikiEN-l mailing list.
