We have launched a new feature called comment flagging. This feature enables users to flag comments that do not abide by the Reader Guidelines. The flagger's identity is hidden from the other readers but is visible to the editors. Readers who are logged in will now see a "Flag" link at the bottom of each comment (next to the "Reply" link to the right of the "Start new thread" link); clicking this link will cause the comment to be flagged. If a comment receives a certain number of flags, it becomes hidden automatically. Editors will use the list of flagged and hidden comments as a guide for moderation and to ensure that the system is not being abused.

Flags should be reserved for comments that violate the reader guidelines. Do not flag a comment just because you disagree with it! Abuse of the comment flagging system is grounds for account suspension. To ensure that readers use their flags judiciously, they are limited to 5 flags (this number is subject to change). If a reader has already flagged 5 comments and they flag an additional comment, then the earliest flag they have placed will be removed. Comments are not automatically unhidden when flags are removed; they can only be unhidden with an editor's intervention.

You can view a list the comments you have flagged under the "My account" link or at http://www.theoildrum.com/my_flags. You cannot see whether other individuals have flagged a comment; only editors have this information.