Help:I have been blocked

What does this mean?

What is a block? A block is a measure used to protect Wikipedia from possible improper activity in breach of editorial policies. Blocks can apply to a user account, an IP address, or a range of IP addresses that is deemed responsible for or related to problematic activity. The reason for your block may be found above. Most common causes Problem with your editing or Wikipedia behavior (under any account or IP address) - your account or a connected IP has been used in a problematic way or there is a concern about your editing. The reason should be in the box above. Problem with your username - your username was unsuitable and has been blocked, you need to choose another before continuing. Unintended triggering of anti-vandalism systems (known as "collateral damage") - your IP address unfortunately happens to match an IP address used by a blocked account. Ask for further information and/or request unblocking. An administrator or checkuser will investigate and consider whether it is likely this has happened.

What do I do now?

If instructions are given in the block message, follow them. If you have never edited Wikipedia before and/or do not have an account, consider requesting one at https://accounts.wmflabs.org/, which allows you to edit despite the block on your IP address. Requests to unblock your IP address even if you are innocent will generally not be granted. We apologize for the inconvenience, but you must request an account and log in using that account in order to edit. This is necessary to prevent abusive users who may be using a similar IP address to yours. If you wish to appeal the block, or you believe you have been blocked by mistake, please see the following section. Appealing You have many routes to appeal the block or its duration. Firstly, if you are a registered editor and have a valid e-mail address confirmed, you can e-mail the blocking administrator. This feature can be removed if abused. Alternatively, you may appeal the block by adding {{unblock|your reason here}} to the bottom of your user talk page. You must state a reason for this, and the block can then be discussed. Our guide to appealing blocks might help you write your unblock request. Please note: While this block may be upsetting or unexpected, abuse of appeal processes, repeatedly using the unblock template when denied, personal attacks, or impolite conduct may lead to the removal of your ability to edit your talk page.

Additional information

Online Chat You may also use the freenode IRC network to discuss your block with administrators available at the time. If you have an IRC client, the unblock channel is at #wikipedia-en-unblock connect. If you don't have an IRC client, the connect link will open a browser-based chat application. Alternate Option Due to the high volume of unblock appeals we receive, you are more likely to get a quick response if you request an unblock on your talk page first. Before you contacting us, please make sure that your situation has not already been addressed by the above sections. Your talk page may also contain further details related to your block or IP address, and we strongly advise that you review it before contacting us. If you still need help, you can submit a request to the Unblock Ticket Request System at the link below. Submit an unblock appeal Even though requests sent to the Unblock Request Ticket System are viewable only by administrators and trusted volunteers, under no circumstances should you send us your account's password or reveal it to anyone else even if asked to. This system is only for the purpose of reviewing blocks. Requests to edit articles on your behalf will be disregarded. Correspondence containing legal threats, personal attacks or rudeness are likely to be ignored and may result in the lengthening of pre-existing blocks.