The rule requiring New Scratchers to wait 30 seconds between comments exists mainly to prevent spam caused by New Scratchers. This restriction is greatly relaxed to two seconds for users of Scratcher status.
This restriction was mainly created as a preventative measure against spam and flame wars. While the rule has received controversy as many Scratchers consider it annoying, it has remained in place due to its effectivity at combating spam and malicious use of comments. As New Scratcher is the default group for any users who have recently registered, any spambots will be throttled at 30 seconds between comments. The rate limit is greatly reduced to two seconds for any users of Scratcher status.
