News0 min ago
One Way Of Hitting Spammers?
3 Answers
Really I’m just thinking aloud here, but wondered if there’s the germ of an idea in it…
The main problem with spammers is that attempts to spam them in return are futile – in most cases all you do is spam a hacked email address or those designed to not receive replies. Also bear in mind this idea can’t address the problem of spam emails with attachments (which you should NEVER download).
However, there are lots of spams which contain a link to a website, and when you mouseover you can see if it’s a standard web address. Now, whatever wares are being touted, surely these sites would always have some sort of contact email address?
My idea would be to note that address, then visit a load of websites where you can sign up for updates, offers etc; if you fancied putting the work in, spend a day on it! Keep putting the offending website’s email address into these signups.
Well, it’s just an idea. I’m happy to be shot down by any techies!
The main problem with spammers is that attempts to spam them in return are futile – in most cases all you do is spam a hacked email address or those designed to not receive replies. Also bear in mind this idea can’t address the problem of spam emails with attachments (which you should NEVER download).
However, there are lots of spams which contain a link to a website, and when you mouseover you can see if it’s a standard web address. Now, whatever wares are being touted, surely these sites would always have some sort of contact email address?
My idea would be to note that address, then visit a load of websites where you can sign up for updates, offers etc; if you fancied putting the work in, spend a day on it! Keep putting the offending website’s email address into these signups.
Well, it’s just an idea. I’m happy to be shot down by any techies!
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For the very naughty sort, there are websites that automatically bombard addresses with stupid spam.
Ultimately it's a question of karma, and a decent spam filter. If your email hasn't got the latter, then ye may reap three times three the spam ye seek to punish.
If you haven't got a decent spam filter, you need to switch to an email provider that includes one. And as for the former, while these acts of revenge may be passingly satisfying, how does that leave your chakra feeling?
Ultimately it's a question of karma, and a decent spam filter. If your email hasn't got the latter, then ye may reap three times three the spam ye seek to punish.
If you haven't got a decent spam filter, you need to switch to an email provider that includes one. And as for the former, while these acts of revenge may be passingly satisfying, how does that leave your chakra feeling?
Making any sort of response to spammers, whether you click on thier clicks or not (not!), lets them know that they have found a genuine email address. Marking them as Spam on your email system, and deleting them, is a better way to go it. Personally I have neither time not inclination than to faff about setting up deceitful details to waste everyone's time. The spammers won't care.
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