I want my users to have to register by valid email before they can edit.
The platform provides this feature through an extra extension. All create account form submissions must include an email address. We send email that contains a special link back to the wiki to confirm the user address; and the user is allowed to edit.
What happens when an unconfirmed user tries to edit?
Using the source editor, they receive the following notice:
You do not have permission to edit this page, for the following reason:
You must confirm your email address before editing pages. Please set and validate your email address through your user preferences (link to Special:Preferences).
What about any pre-existing accounts where there’s no email on file?
Same thing. The user will be asked to verify their email prior to being able to save the edit.
When a user tries to edit, they are told they must first validate their email at Special:ChangeEmail
After supplying their email address, the page informs:
Change or remove email address
A confirmation email has been sent to the specified email address. Before any other email is sent to the account, you will have to follow the instructions in the email, to confirm that the account is actually yours.
with a link to Return to Special:Preferences.
Caution: This feature does nothing to prevent spam. If your wiki is public, you will need to take measures to combat spam.