As so often the case, this thread lacks a foundation of facts (except for Uberdude’s posts) on which to base a rational discussion.
First, escaping is very common and is greatly hated by the community, as indicated by reports, past discussions, and simple observation.
Second, players do not need to escape to play simuls, to watch other games, or to do anything else.
Third, escaping is already prohibited under the TOS, which bars players from acting “in a manner that negatively affects other users’ ability to … use Services provided by Online-Go.com” (because escaping prevents someone from moving on to their next game). It would be better if the TOS were explicit about escaping, but it isn’t, which may contribute to ignorance on the subject (this has been discussed in the past).
Fourth, reported escapers typically receive at least two warnings and then are banned. In some cases, more warnings are given. Some players do get banned—in other words, they are helll-bent on escaping.
Fifth, players escape for a variety of reasons: revenge, ignorance, and as a cheating technique (they come back in the hope the opponent has left).
The pop-up idea is appealing, but of limited value. It will educate players who are ignorant but good-hearted (mainly new players and some veterans who have so far avoided a reprimand). To be clear, many players do stop escaping after they have been warned. If the pop-up mentions that escaping is a bannable offense, it may also deter some of the vengeful, who are, in my observation, by far the most numerous offenders.
