SynchThese guidelines explain how to submit a Freedom of Information Request (FOIR) to Synch, and how we handle one. FOIRs give our community a structured way to ask for information, so that Synch stays transparent and accountable. Requests are handled by the Transparency Department through the Appeals Committee.
What we can and can't release is governed by our Confidential Information Policy. How we handle personal data is explained in our Privacy Policy and GDPR Notice.
1. Who can make a request
Any member of Synch can make a FOIR about server administration, moderation decisions, infraction records (without other people's personal information) and other matters to do with how Synch is run. You don't have to be on staff.
2. What you can request
- Explanations of specific moderation decisions, without revealing anyone's personal information.
- Information about our policies and procedures.
- Details of promotions and demotions, where the Transparency Department decides this is necessary.
- Other information about how our servers and services are run, as decided by the Internal Affairs board.
3. What can't be released
- Personal information about members, such as usernames, IP addresses or private messages. You can always ask for information about yourself.
- Information that could compromise the security or integrity of our servers or services.
- Information about ongoing investigations, as decided by the Appeals Committee.
- Information that Leadership, Management or the Executive have classed as confidential for a legitimate reason, including the internal records listed in our Confidential Information Policy.
If only part of what you ask for can be released, we'll release that part and tell you why the rest can't be.
4. How to submit a request
- Submit your request in writing, in a ticket: open a support ticket in our Discord server (discord.gg/NvbG77QZSP) or in the Appeals & Staff Reports server.
- Use the template below, so we have everything we need.
- Keep your request respectful and professional.
Please don't raise FOIRs, or argue about their outcome, in public channels. Requests made there won't be processed, and staff will ask you to open a ticket instead.
5. FOIR template
Copy this into your ticket and fill in the parts in [brackets].
Freedom of Information Request (FOIR)
To: Synch Appeals Committee
Date: [date of submission]
I am submitting this request for information under Synch's Freedom of Information Request procedure. I am requesting the following information:
[Clearly and specifically state the information you are requesting. Be as detailed as possible.]
[If applicable, explain why you are requesting it and how the information will be used.]
I understand that some information may be exempt from disclosure. I ask that you provide as much information as possible within those restrictions.
I would appreciate a response within [a reasonable timeframe, for example 72 hours or one week]. If more time is needed, I ask for an acknowledgement and an estimated date for a response.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
[Your Discord username]
6. How requests are handled
- The Internal Affairs board, or staff it designates, reviews every FOIR.
- We acknowledge your request within 24 hours.
- We respond within three days to one week, with the information you asked for or an explanation of why it can't be provided.
- If your request is unclear, we'll contact you in your ticket to ask for clarification.
- If the information is about another member, they may be told about the request and given a reasonable chance to object before anything is released (see our Confidential Information Policy).
7. Changes to these guidelines
The Executive may change these guidelines when needed. Changes may not always be announced in our servers, but every version is kept in this page's history.