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 þ Forwarded by : Bill Grimsley of 3:711/934.18
 þ Original From: Philip Brown of 3:640/213
 þ Original Date: 13:35 on Sat, Oct 15, 1994
 þ Original Area: ZONE3_SYSOP
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Hi folks,


Given the recent report by the Attorney-General regarding BBS, and the
recommendations thereof, I'd like to propose voluntary classification of
echos by Sysops.

The idea would be to use the same classifications as are used for TV and
film, and would refer to the 'normal' echo content: 

 G  - For General Exhibition or Consumption.

 M  - Recommended for mature audiences (15 years and over).

 MA - For mature audiences - not for persons under 15 years without parental
      approval (approval required per individual Sysop's requirements).

 R  - Restricted access - not for persons under the age of 18 years - proof of
      age required at Sysop's discretion.

 X  - Explicit in nature - contents may offend.  Access restricted as per R
      rating.

The following descriptive qualifiers could be available to provide further
details for users, and would reflect normal echo content:

 S  - Sexual references.

 A  - Adult themes.

 L  - Coarse language.

 V  - Violence depicted.


The idea is not to impose restrictions on FidoNet, or any of FidoNet's
Sysops or users, but rather to help guide people as to the 'normal' content
of an echo.  This should help people make informed decisions regarding
their choice of echoes, and should show the authorities that FidoNet is
providing useful and effective self-regulation as suggested by the A-G. 

I'd be interested in comments and responses?


Phil

-- farmer{at}softtech.brisnet.org.au
-- Foozle 1.03 (2013) & Trapdoor 1.85 (15365)   
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