Message Rate Limits & Spam Prevention Policy

1. Purpose & Platform Integrity Goals

Friendium is designed for authentic, meaningful interaction between real people. Message rate limits and spam prevention systems exist to ensure that communication tools are not abused for harassment, scams, misinformation, or commercial exploitation.

These controls are essential to protecting user safety, reducing fraud, and preserving confidence in the platform.

2. Scope of Application

This policy applies to all forms of private and semi-private communication on Friendium, including:

• Direct messages (one-to-one)
• Group messages and conversations
• Message requests to non-connections
• Invitations and connection requests
• Comment replies and mentions when rate-limited

3. Message Rate Limiting Framework

Friendium applies adaptive rate limits based on multiple factors, including:

• Account age and history
• Verification and trust signals
• Connection status between users
• Recent messaging behavior
• Prior enforcement actions

Limits are dynamic and may change over time as trust is established.

4. Examples of Rate-Limited Activity

The following behaviors may trigger temporary or persistent limits:

• Sending high volumes of messages in short timeframes
• Repeatedly messaging users who do not respond
• Sending identical or near-identical messages
• Mass outreach to users without prior connection
• Rapid group invitation creation

5. Spam Detection Signals

Friendium uses a combination of automated signals to identify spam, including:

• Message duplication and template reuse
• Suspicious links or shortened URLs
• Known scam keywords or phrases
• Behavioral patterns associated with fraud
• Reports from recipients

6. Automated Preventive Actions

When potential spam is detected, Friendium may:

• Temporarily block message sending
• Delay message delivery
• Require additional verification
• Limit messaging to existing connections
• Escalate the account for review

7. Protections for Message Recipients

To reduce unwanted contact, Friendium provides:

• Message request approval systems
• Automatic filtering of unknown senders
• Spam warnings and previews
• Easy reporting and blocking options

8. Commercial & Promotional Messaging

Unsolicited commercial messaging is prohibited unless explicitly permitted. This includes:

• Affiliate marketing or referral spam
• Cryptocurrency or investment solicitations
• Job scams or fake opportunities
• Political or ideological mass outreach

9. Coordinated Spam & Network Abuse

Friendium actively monitors for coordinated spam campaigns involving:

• Multiple accounts acting in concert
• Shared IP or device fingerprints
• Automated or scripted behavior

Detection may result in network-wide enforcement.

10. Enforcement Measures

Violations of this policy may lead to:

• Progressive messaging restrictions
• Temporary account suspension
• Permanent removal for repeat abuse
• Referral to fraud or security teams

11. Appeals & Error Correction

Users who believe their messaging privileges were limited in error may:

• Submit an appeal through account tools
• Provide context for flagged messages
• Request human review

12. Legal & Regulatory Compliance

Spam prevention practices are designed to comply with:

• Anti-spam and consumer protection laws
• Online safety regulations
• Fraud prevention obligations
• Data protection requirements

13. Transparency & User Education

Friendium provides guidance to help users understand:

• Why rate limits exist
• How to communicate responsibly
• How to avoid triggering spam filters

14. Continuous Improvement

Rate limits and detection models are continuously refined based on:

• Emerging scam techniques
• User reports and feedback
• Moderator review outcomes
• Regulatory guidance

15. Policy Updates

Friendium may update this policy as new threats or technologies emerge. Continued use of messaging features constitutes acceptance of updated limits.

16. Contact & Support

Spam & Abuse Reports: abuse@friendium.com
Security & Fraud: security@friendium.com
User Support: support@friendium.com