Wikipedia:Interface administrators

Interface administrators (interface-admins) are users who can edit all JavaScript (JS), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) pages in the MediaWiki and User namespaces. They are the only local user group with the ability to edit all JS/CSS pages. These pages are executed by the browser of wiki editors and readers as code, which can be used to change how content is styled, change the behavior of pages, or even create complex tools to help with editing.

There are currently 14 interface administrators. If you need assistance from an interface administrator, you can make a request at the interface administrators' noticeboard or use {{edit interface-protected}}.

Background

The ability to edit JS/CSS that is executed in other users' browsers is very powerful, and extremely dangerous in the hands of a malicious user; interface administrators should be users who are highly trusted, have at least a basic understanding of JS and CSS, are aware of the privacy expectations of Wikimedia wikis, and have a decent understanding of how to secure their accounts (such as choosing strong and unique passwords and avoiding malware infection).

The WMF Office requires all interface administrators to use two-factor authentication on their acccounts. Interface administrators that do not have two-factor authentication enabled, or who disable or remove it from their account security settings, will not be able to use their permissions until it is re-enabled and configured.

There is a similar global interface editors group, who may use their access subject to the global rights policy.

Process for requesting

The interface administrator permissions may be granted only to users who are current administrators.

• Venue: Wikipedia:Bureaucrats' noticeboard
• Process: The administrator makes a request, with a rationale, at the bureaucrats' noticeboard, to request interface administrator access. The request will remain open for 48 hours for first-time requests. Reinstatement requests, not under a cloud, will not have a waiting period. No notice at other noticeboards is required. Bureaucrats may inquire about why the administrator is requesting access at their discretion. All editors may discuss the applicant, but the final decision rests with the reviewing bureaucrat. Bureaucrats may not assign access to themselves.
• Duration of right: Permanent by default, can be temporary if requested.