ANNOUNCEMENT – Rule 6 on AI-generated, formatted, cited content

ANNOUNCEMENT: Rule 6 Clarification on AI-Generated, Formatted, and Cited Content

In light of ongoing discussions about AI usage on r/travel and r/flights, we are providing a clear update to our community guidelines.

Background
For the past 18 months, moderators have faced a challenging task in moderating content that involves AI tools. Moderation decisions varied based on individual judgment about how much AI was involved in a post or comment, ranging from removal to temporary or permanent bans.

What is and isn’t allowed
The following AI-related activities are considered violations, including but not limited to:
– Generating a post or substantial portions of it with AI
– Formatting a post using AI
– Translating an entire post with AI
– Citing or referencing AI as a primary source
– Asking the community to proofread or validate an AI-generated itinerary

Policy update
To streamline moderation and set clear expectations, we will not take action unless there is a strong consensus among moderators that a post or comment is AI-generated. This means a super-majority of moderators must agree before enforcing penalties.

Rationale
We recognize that AI usage will continue to evolve. Our objective is to minimize AI-generated “slop” and preserve opportunities for original, human-created content that enriches the community.

Enforcement framework
Inspired by practices from other communities, violations will be addressed as follows:
– 1st offense: 28-day ban
– 2nd offense: Permanent ban

If you believe your post was removed or you were banned in error, you can contact the moderation team via ModMail to explain your position. Providing examples of non-AI tools you used, samples of your other writing, or ensuring your profile is accessible for comparison can help clarify the situation.

Important reminders for the community
1) The fastest way to help maintain a high-quality, AI-minimized subreddit is to use the Report button rather than commenting “AI Slop!!!” in threads.
2) Moderators personally encounter AI-generated content in daily life, so honesty is essential. Misrepresenting content makes moderation more difficult for everyone.

We welcome feedback on how to improve AI moderation and management within r/travel and r/flights. Please share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments.

Notes
– We acknowledge that AI-assisted formatting is useful in some contexts, but it can blur the line between organized human thought and generated content.
– We are open to discussing language accessibility across different English proficiency levels.
– Be aware that AI-generated outputs as a source can be unreliable, especially when summarizing specific regulations or intricate rules. AI should not be treated as a sole or authoritative source.