It looks like there are times where replies automatically go into moderation. What are the rules and can they be updated?
Lastly, can an email be sent when a post is in moderation? Otherwise, I have no clue when it takes place.
Hmmm, you should be getting emails when a post is in moderation.
In forum dashboard, look for "Spam Protection"
In there you will see a setting that you can change how many posts a new member can have before their posts are no longer moderated. This should be at least 1. Then new posts have to be manually approved before the rest of the forum can see it.
Try using the Clean Talk spam protection, Askimet is a bit s**t TBH. That doesn't keep spam away.
Then, in dashbaord, go to "Email Setting" and scroll to the bottom. There you will find the setting for emails sent to admin and mod when a post needs reviewing for approval.
I hope this helps
Found this article to solve my issue: https://gvectors.com/how-to-disable-topics-and-posts-moderation/