Make your Free Online Terms and Conditions

You own a website and need to define the Online Terms and Conditions. You don't want it turning into a spam-ridden minefield. Most of your users will probably follow netiquette, but there are always a few trolls lurking out there, looking for something to do. Alert users to your no-no's with your Online Terms and Conditions.

Use the Online Terms and Conditions document if:

• You're about to launch a new site.
• You're a website owner without a current Online Terms and Conditions document.
• You're overhauling someone else's site.

Your Online Terms and Conditions help protect you and your users. Be upfront and explain-legally-how your site works, what's okay, and what's not. This can include membership terms or what constitutes harassment on your site. When someone doesn't follow the rules, this is your avenue for restricting them or even banishing them from your site. After all, you want to make sure your site is enjoyable to the real users who make up your online community. Plus, this is one of the few legal trump cards site owners have. Use it wisely. You've put a lot of work into design and outreach. Don't let a few baiters or bad apples get to you. Ticking Online Terms and Conditions off your pre-launch list helps you get one virtual foot closer to success.

Other names for this document: Online Terms of Use