a) When searching
If a player's ball is moved, touched or caused to move by an opponent, his caddie or his equipment while he is searching for it, this is not penalized. If the ball has been moved, it must be put back.
b) Except when searching
If a player's ball is moved, deliberately touched or caused to move by an opponent, his caddie or his equipment, other than as provided for in the rules, except while being searched for, the opponent incurs a penalty stroke. If the ball has been moved, it must be put back.
(Playing the wrong ball - see Rule 15-3.)
(Ball moved during remeasurement - see Rule 18-6.)
Status: 2018
