New Rule: 10 Posts Before Private Messages Unlocked

[Bloggeries]

After all the private message spam we've been hit with I figured it was time to make those spam bots waste some time. Until you reach 10 posts and become an established member you can't send private messages.

It's unfortunate but 10 posts is a great way to tell if someone is a spammer or not; they usually show their true colors by then. Also considering adding another usergroup so when you hit 5 posts you can send PM's?

Any thoughts?

[Ferox]

I think it's a good idea. You don't need to add another group, although we're bound to get a post sometime that says "Why can't I send PMs" and we'll say "Because you didn't have ten posts, but you do now, so try again."

[rhyswynne]

Yes! This is a great thing! Of course it doesn't affect me, but if it leads to less spam, I'm sure nobody will complain!

[The Smile Guy]

Gotta do something to get those spammers down.

[Bloggeries]

Anything that reduces spam helps. Also thinking of making it that you need 10 posts to drop a URL so your first URL should be "SHOW OFF YOUR BLOG" instead of signing up dropping 2-3 in introduction never coming back.

If you can't / don't want to make 10 posts that's fine you just can't live link to your stuff which is what 90% of offenders seem to be doing / may even be their sole intention for registering.

[QuirkyJessi]

Yep, I agree with both points. I don't really like how people can just drop a link and run as it is anyway, but it's your forum, not mine. I've seen both limitations (10 posts required before PMs and linking) work wonders on numerous forums before.

[skleiner]

Great Idea Rob - I would go for it, so many do just drop the link and never return for conversation - and it's all about the conversation!

[Bloggeries]

Right you are Sue. Looking for a mod that allows me to disable HTML for all registered (not established) users. I think the big thing is more link dropping than say signature abuse as I'm not seeing that so much.

Private messages (Taken Care of I believe)
Link Drop Spam (Next on the list)
Signature Links (On the Radar)

Any other types of spam you've been finding?

[The University Kid]

I never get any PM spam.

[Harald Johnsen]

Originally Posted by The University Kid

I never get any PM spam.

Me neither.