# Community and badges

Meet other explorers, recognize the people helping the community, and make your account feel like yours.

## Join Discord

Use the Discord button at the bottom of MineGeo, or [join the community here](https://discord.gg/Aer4ZugKWS).

Newly approved maps may be announced there. Hosts can also share open multiplayer parties to the community's party channel. Open an invite to join while there is space.

## Apply to be a moderator

1. Sign in to MineGeo and set your username in **Settings** if you have not already.
2. For **Discord**, [join the MineGeo community](https://discord.gg/Aer4ZugKWS), find the **MineGeo** bot in the member list, and send it a direct message. You cannot apply through a public server channel.
3. For **Telegram**, [open @MineGeoModeratorBot](https://t.me/MineGeoModeratorBot) and select **Start**.
4. Select **Apply for moderator** and enter your exact MineGeo username.
5. Open the confirmation link the bot sends you within **30 minutes** and sign in to the same MineGeo account. This confirms that the account belongs to you.
6. Wait for an Admin to accept or decline your application. The bot will send you the decision; an accepted application gives that confirmed account the Moderator role.

If your confirmation link expires, start a new application. Do not share your confirmation link with anyone.

## What do the name badges mean?

- **Moderator, with a shield:** someone who can check maps and approve them for public play.
- **Admin, with a crown:** someone who can also handle community reports and other site management.
- **Bug finder:** someone recognized for helping find a confirmed bug.
- **Custom prefix:** extra text and an icon assigned by an Admin.

A decorative custom prefix does not give someone moderation powers. Copying another player's name does not copy their badges.

## Can I get a glow?

Support may award one for a confirmed bug report. Describe the real problem through **Report a bug**. A reward is granted by staff; it is not automatic for every report.

If you have an active glow, open **Settings → Username glow**, choose a color, and save it. You can keep an earned Bug finder badge even if the glow is later removed.

## Be a good party member

Share invites thoughtfully, keep chat friendly, and avoid spoiling the location before everyone has guessed. Report content that needs attention instead of starting an argument.