Moderator Shield Icon

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AI-generated summary

The discussion revolves around the visibility of the moderator shield icon on user profiles. RobMeade asks why the shield appears for moderators but not always for admins, noting that some admins have custom titles instead. cpradio explains the shield only appears when the “Is Moderator” setting is enabled, even for admins, and suggests it’s to reduce visibility and prevent users from constantly seeking out admins. sam clarifies that admins are meant to be less visible, focusing on technical backend tasks rather than day-to-day moderation. tobiaseigen adds that the about page lists who is an admin versus a moderator. RobMeade appreciates the explanation, acknowledging the utility of the moderator label even when admin privileges are present.

1

Quick question…

I noticed the little shield icon ages ago which appears next to someone who is a moderator, are there specific circumstances when this may change?

For example, I have both admin and moderator access, the latter being granted initially. Yet the little shield just states moderator, are admins more concealed?

I had a quick look at our other admins and they have other “titles” appearing next to them, and I note that when I check @sam here, his doesn’t have the little shield icon either, again, there is a specific title.

Just trying to work out the circumstances under which the shield icon is/is not displayed, and whether certain things override its usage.

Thanks in advance :slight_smile:

2

I believe it is only shown when Is Moderator is checked. Admins either also need that checked (to get the shield) or should use a custom title.

IIRC, the reason behind that was to shield admins from people constantly seeking them out versus using flagging.

3

Thanks for the info @cpradio

I have both checked at my end and yes, that would make sense regarding being sought after. The only reason it really came up was that someone wasn’t sure if I was an admin or not, so I was surprised they didn’t realise having been a member of the same community/team (remote) for about a year. :slight_smile:

4

If you look on the about page you can see who is admin and who is merely a moderator.

5

The idea is that admins should be “less visible”. They are just responsible for background technical running of the forum, not day-to-day management.

6

Thanks @tobiaseigen and @sam for your replies.

“merely” - hehe, I wasn’t suggesting this :slight_smile:

Makes sense Sam, I guess I’m just privileged to have been granted both, although I guess I don’t really need moderator being an admin, but without it it wouldn’t display moderator which does come in handy.

Thanks again :slight_smile: