BOT-POLICIES

 ***** BOT-POLICIES *****

We welcome the creation of innovative "bots" (automated
players) that enhance the ICC experience, but we don't want
them to dominate any chat channels, put undue load on the
server, distort ratings, or annoy people.  Here are some
specific rules, but we may make more rules or require you to
change aspects of your bot at any time as new problems
arise.

(1) Your bot must not spam the server with commands or
otherwise cause the server to use an inordinate amount of
resources.  E.g. if your bot responds automatically to
tells, it must have safeguards against getting into chat
loops with other such bots.

(2) You must document what your bot does in its finger notes
or, additionally, on a web page linked in the notes. Also,
you must email that information and any more details you
would like to include (e.g. how it works) to
freebird@chessclub.com.  (We reserve the right to use any
such information you submit, in any way we like, without
compensating you.)

(3) If your computer player searches to a fixed depth or for
some other reason its playing strength does not increase
when it has more time, it should only use one time control
per rating category, when playing rated.

(4) Collecting information from ICC, without ICC's written
approval, is in violation of "help agreement".  You must
obtain ICC's permission before doing this.

See also:  computers, bots, programmers