Maybe the more stealthy “passwording” technique was used?
I was in that “infamous/celebrated” (take your pick... /g) bug-zapper thread, albeit mostly as an observer.
My recollection is that there were quite a few “zapees” who were reinstated after a cooling-off period. Some, however, may have been too proud to take the peace-offer and declined to re-engage.
As far a a stealth zot, I doubt that’s a policy here. Jim Robinson is not a shrinking violet and when he delivers a zot I don’t think he cares who knows it... /g