📢 Policy Update: Handling archive.today Links

The moderation team is implementing a shift in how we manage links from archive.today (and its various mirrors like archive.is). While we recognize the utility of these services, we need to prioritize transparency and source verification.

The Core Dilemma

We understand that many users rely on archiving services for two primary reasons:

1. Bypassing Paywalls: Ensuring that content is accessible to everyone regardless of their subscription status.
2. Preservation: Preventing "link rot" or the deletion of evidence/articles by the original publisher.

However, relying solely on these links creates a blind spot. It becomes difficult to verify the original source, and it opens the door for misleading content to be presented as "archived" truth without a way to check the live site.

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🛠 The New Requirement

Previously, providing just an archive link was acceptable. Going forward, all posts must include the original source URL in addition to any archive link.

"To maintain the integrity of our discussions, we require that the primary source be visible. Archive links are a supplement, not a replacement for the original URL."

Comparison of Posting Standards

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🔄 Submission Workflow

To ensure your post isn't removed, follow this logic flow:

📝 Example of a Correct Post

When submitting your link, your comment or post body should look something like this:

Original: https://www.nytimes.com/article-example
Archive: https://archive.is/example-code

🧮 The Logic of Validity

We can express the requirement for a valid post using a simple boolean expression:

$\text{Post Status} = \begin{cases} \text{Approved} & \text{if } (\text{Original Link} = \text{True}) \\ \text{Removed} & \text{if } (\text{Original Link} = \text{False}) \end{cases}$

Regardless of whether $\text{Archive Link} = \text{True}$ or $\text{False}$, the original source is the deciding factor.

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✅ Pre-Posting Checklist

Before you hit "Submit," please ensure you have completed the following:

• I have included the https:// link to the original publisher.
• I have provided an archive.today link (if the site has a paywall).
• I have verified that the archive link actually works.

Caption: Preserving the digital record while maintaining transparency.

Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in the automatic removal of your content to prevent the spread of unverified sources.