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this post was submitted on 07 Nov 2025
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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I know someone who used 88 in a username on accident, not knowing how cryptonazis use it. He found out because he got called out for it and asked to explain. After finding out what 88 can mean, he changed his username because he didn't want to be mistaken as a nazi. TBF, his initial reaction was "wtf, why would someone suggest I'm a nazi and want to ban me because I have some numbers at the end of my name?" I think some people take it for granted that others are aware of these things.
Also, 1988 was a year that existed.
It sucks that they take otherwise normal things and ruin them.
Is it safe to use the OK hand signal again?
Yep. Although...
Words and symbols cannot be divorced from context. Like @SineSwiper@discuss.tchncs.de hinted at, putting a date of birth in a username is common and there are so many other meanings for these numbers so it would be ridiculous to jump down someone's throat for simply using them, or using common gestures. Unless that friend in the story was also saying some reactionary things in their comments, I think it's silly and careless that someone challenged them on their name.
I been told by some international friends that one of the political flags over in Australia, the Eureka flag, has a similar situation where both trade unions and white nationalists try to claim its legacy, so it's common to see in both the pro and anti immigration rallies. Context is what makes it either a potential nationalist/racist dogwhistle or a symbol of workers' rights.