Let's Talk BBQ
Welcome Center => Announcements => Topic started by: gfgraphics on January 10, 2014, 03:38:30 PM
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We would like to try an experiment with the Lets Talk BBQ Forum.
Up to this point, anytime that anyone would like to join the Forum, they would fill out the request and it would be sent to the Administrator for manual approval. He would then send a message to the applicant asking for personal information which would then be returned for approval. This is all done to prevent Spammers and Scammers from intruding on this forum.
The downside to this is that anytime that TeeSquare has been unavailable -sick, traveling, etc. - the application languishes in limbo until he is available, sometimes for several days. It can also have a delay if the approval email goes into the applicant's Junk Mail folder, etc. Bottom line, it gets delayed.
The experiment we would like to attempt is to have the Forum software itself handle new applicants. Most of you are familiar with the process, You apply for permission to get into a private area and the system sends you an email for you to click on a link verifying that it is a valid email account. When this is done, they have access to the site.
This is like any other system in that it is not 100% guaranteed, not even the manual system. That said, it is less labor intensive and much quicker to respond.
What we would like from you is your opinion on whether you think we should do this and make it easier for others to join. When/If we go ahead with this, we would also depend on you to let us know if you are getting spammed or scammed and reporting
those posts and message if it does occur.
What do you think?
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I think this will still keep out the spam bots, but may not be enough of a deterrent to manual spammers (there are still plenty of those). My suggestion would be to simply set up a hierarchy for the approval (if Tee is out, Smoke does it, etc) and use a moderator distribution list instead of it only going to Tee.
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I think we could try it and see how it works. if not..go back to the other way, it won't take long to tell if it works. Or try slidinbilly's way. It's all about options. Pam ☆´¯`•.¸¸. ི
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I think this will still keep out the spam bots, but may not be enough of a deterrent to manual spammers (there are still plenty of those). My suggestion would be to simply set up a hierarchy for the approval (if Tee is out, Smoke does it, etc) and use a moderator distribution list instead of it only going to Tee.
My 2 cents worth, I couldn't agree any more with what Chris offered. This is the BEST forum of any type on the web for several reasons, one being the way people are screened coming in the "front door". Like the old timers say, "If it ain't broke don't fix it". Things here are sooo good I'm a bit leery of changing the protocol for entry. :-\
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Don't fix it if it ain't broke (oops - hikerman beat me to that one). If you can make it less cumbersome for tee and his posse, fine, but if you take out the human link, some subhuman will find a way around it.
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I think this will still keep out the spam bots, but may not be enough of a deterrent to manual spammers (there are still plenty of those). My suggestion would be to simply set up a hierarchy for the approval (if Tee is out, Smoke does it, etc) and use a moderator distribution list instead of it only going to Tee.
My 2 cents worth, I couldn't agree any more with what Chris offered. This is the BEST forum of any type on the web for several reasons, one being the way people are screened coming in the "front door". Like the old timers say, "If it ain't broke don't fix it". Things here are sooo good I'm a bit leery of changing the protocol for entry. :-\
x2 . I know it's rough and I have been dealing with these issues trying to get folks here. It's worth not going thru the B.S. of other sites with spam
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I think we have at least 3 "super-moderators" here, don't we?
Maybe you could set up the aforementioned hierarchy and spread it out amongst them - one of them is always on duty. You could even offer to double their salary for all the trouble.
just sayin'...
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P.S. I will be happy to assist if needed. I have owned a Yahoo Group for many years (I set it up in Jan of 2006) and have over 3300 members. Between myself and a couple of mods, me make approvals and denials happen with no problem.
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P.S. I will be happy to assist if needed. I have owned a Yahoo Group for many years (I set it up in Jan of 2006) and have over 3300 members. Between myself and a couple of mods, me make approvals and denials happen with no problem.
Sounds like a good idea
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I think this will still keep out the spam bots, but may not be enough of a deterrent to manual spammers (there are still plenty of those). My suggestion would be to simply set up a hierarchy for the approval (if Tee is out, Smoke does it, etc) and use a moderator distribution list instead of it only going to Tee.
My 2 cents worth, I couldn't agree any more with what Chris offered. This is the BEST forum of any type on the web for several reasons, one being the way people are screened coming in the "front door". Like the old timers say, "If it ain't broke don't fix it". Things here are sooo good I'm a bit leery of changing the protocol for entry. :-\
x2 . I know it's rough and I have been dealing with these issues trying to get folks here. It's worth not going thru the B.S. of other sites with spam
I have to agree
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Had two join this week and yes they had to try at it but it's worth it in the end.
As long as I have to be a go between Tim and others to get them here I say it's worth it
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Ok I was just spammed, I wrote a very detailed 6 page report of comments and now it's gone >:(
Here is the short version, only a Nickels worth as we don't have pennies anymore ::)
We could take applications for folks that would be willing to be deputized to help out. The training would be hard, like the Canadian Joint Task Force 2 forces, like Seals but winterized ;D
I'm just not sure we want to open the spammer door and have to close it late.
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I think this will still keep out the spam bots, but may not be enough of a deterrent to manual spammers (there are still plenty of those). My suggestion would be to simply set up a hierarchy for the approval (if Tee is out, Smoke does it, etc) and use a moderator distribution list instead of it only going to Tee.
My 2 cents worth, I couldn't agree any more with what Chris offered. This is the BEST forum of any type on the web for several reasons, one being the way people are screened coming in the "front door". Like the old timers say, "If it ain't broke don't fix it". Things here are sooo good I'm a bit leery of changing the protocol for entry. :-\
x2 . I know it's rough and I have been dealing with these issues trying to get folks here. It's worth not going thru the B.S. of other sites with spam
I have to agree
I agree also! If someone isn't patient enough to wait until it is approved, then just maybe.. and as Jaxon says "Just Sayin"... ;)
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Yup, it might take a bit longer to join, but this forum is well worth the wait 8)
If Tee is gonna be away for a spell, Cliff and I can be back-ups, and of course we have many great members here that would step up as well....keep the human touch for this one.......
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There have been some people who I have directed to join here that never received a follow up to join. I was able to get them through with a email to Tee but it took me sending an email. These are good people that I had already vetted that were flagged for one reason or another.
Now I do not know how much control there is over the forum software but IMHO I think a little tweaking might be needed.
One idea that I have is you can start new members with the ability to post but not start new topics until they get some time/posts under their belt. Maybe limit their amount of posts per day until they reach a certain time period and amount of posts per day.
This way if they are spammers they can be identified pretty quickly and removed. They also will not be able to start any topics if they are bots and this will pose more trouble than a spammer may want to deal with.
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Taking Muebes idea one step further...how about their first post can only be posted in new members introductions, this way they are limited to that one thread and they can then be checked out and once cleared they have access to all sections ??
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Yup, it might take a bit longer to join, but this forum is well worth the wait 8)
If Tee is gonna be away for a spell, Cliff and I can be back-ups, and of course we have many great members here that would step up as well....keep the human touch for this one.......
Sound's right to me.
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There have been some people who I have directed to join here that never received a follow up to join. I was able to get them through with a email to Tee but it took me sending an email. These are good people that I had already vetted that were flagged for one reason or another.
This is a good point muebe... And - now is a good time to explain a bit about our internal securities processes.
1. We use 3 different "levels" of security. The part that folks often get caught up in is that many - if not MOST of us have at one time or another, had our e-mail hi-jacked. You know, - like when you get an e-mail from someone you know....but you open it only to discover - it is not from your friend....it is someone trying to sell you cheap viagra, or a Russian bride.
Here is the bottom line: WE at LTBBQ can't take the risk of letting someone into our site, and risk them accessing your data. Once your e-mail has been hi-jacked - if you don't change your e-mail address and password - then, you are acting really dumb!!! I am sorry that sounds harsh - but think about it. Now someone can cruise into your e-mail at will - and wait for you to screw up and leave some financial data exposed. Further you are not being responsible to anyone in your contacts list, because now, their e-mail will at some point - also get 'jacked. THIS is the fastest, easiest way for identity theft to occur folks.
Now - where "rubber meets the road". If your e-mail address has been compromised - and used to send spam by some low-life...then it is likely that your address will get reported to one of several data bases that we subscribe to. Once that happens, the software picks up that name - and WE ( Admins or Mods. ) NEVER even see the application. Why? Because we do not want to risk exposing some chinks in the software's armor to professional hackers, data miners and spammers. Not gonna do it. Period.
What we will do - is encourage the applicant to protect themselves via the e-mail and password change, automate their ( often non-existent) anti-spyware and anti-virus software - then let us know when they are re-applying via e-mail, so that we can walk them thru the security blocks. It REALLY helps if you as members contact us and tell us to watch for peole that you know will be applying.
2. We ALWAYS send out"response e-mails to applicants. It is THE method by which we can figure out if they are "undesirables" ( as above -spammers, etc...) I will not reveal all of the checks and cross checks we use, but - I hope that you will trust it is more than just "check the box" and it is done.
THE problem - is that MANY folks do not know that they even have a spam filter, or how to check it - and then - how to acknowledge our response e-mail to them.
So - we have no choice but to assume that no response from them means that they are a spam bot, or a Chinese Viagra salesman, or changed their mind about membership. WE can't control how computer savvy some folks are - or are not. We DO want everyone to come here - and be welcome, given they are not the "bad guys" - but, we need the software to do what it does best. Sort out the ones that are questionable. Then - if they don't respond to us - We can't do anything about it. Again EVERYONE gets an e-mail sent to them that they MUST respond to. But, because our methods are a little different - that confuses some. Some get pissy - and cop attitude ( no kidding - funny/strange as it sounds...) Some never look in their spam filter.
Again - YOUR help - as current members, is needed to grow this place, and to keep it safe. We want ALL of the good members we can get.
Now I do not know how much control there is over the forum software but IMHO I think a little tweaking might be needed.
One idea that I have is you can start new members with the ability to post but not start new topics until they get some time/posts under their belt. Maybe limit their amount of posts per day until they reach a certain time period and amount of posts per day.
We tried that early on - but all it really seemed to do was discourage sincere posters. GUys with an agenda are just gonna post a one or two word comment on enough threads - quickly to un-lock their priviliges.
This way if they are spammers they can be identified pretty quickly and removed. They also will not be able to start any topics if they are bots and this will pose more trouble than a spammer may want to deal with.
Good input muebe- lets keep the discussion going. Who knows what we may come up with? We are open to ideas folks. But our FIRST priority is to keeping your personal info - including your IP address SAFE
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Taking Muebes idea one step further...how about their first post can only be posted in new members introductions, this way they are limited to that one thread and they can then be checked out and once cleared they have access to all sections ??
I don't know...I have always dis-liked those kinds of automated limits. They don' encourage participation. They only treat everyone with suspicion AFTER they are a member. I would hope that we can vet them before they on board. And - Our software can tell me more about a person that is applying than you may be comfortable knowing. It is just the way the world is, and a measured response to prevent having bad guys running amok on LTBBQ.
Ever see single spammer here.....? NOPE.....
BUT - again, it is vital that we do not eliminate good members erroneously. Even if it is their fault ( hi-jacked e-mail accts. etc...) we want to help them secure their own interests -THEN join us. Otherwise - we leave the site vulnerable.
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Yup, it might take a bit longer to join, but this forum is well worth the wait 8)
If Tee is gonna be away for a spell, Cliff and I can be back-ups, and of course we have many great members here that would step up as well....keep the human touch for this one.......
And - that is forth coming, as long as you and Cliff and I can get together on a chat room nite - or better yet a 3 way phone call.
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T, any computer safety advice you want to pass along I'm here.
My personnel email was hacked and sent porn stuff to all my work mates. Also my boss mates and that's not good.
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Valid concerns have been raised in this thread. There is no way to absolutely prevent a determined hacker from getting into a system. There are typically two main security problems (others exist, but are mainly targeted against the big guys):
- Spam - easy to control, mostly by preventative measures. Once hacked, not so easy to eliminate
- Email harvesting - relatively easy to prevent, but more of a potential danger to those that use a sensitive email address when registering (I always use an email address that I can dispose of if needed; I never use a sensitive email address
LTBBQ is built on SMF forum software, which is a stable and relatively secure platform (I currently run 3 personal and 1 professional forum built on SMF, and have not had a problem on any of them in 5 years of service - knock on wood). Security mods are available such as StopForumSpam, HTTBL, Forum Firewall, and quite a few others. Each brings a new level of security, but then also adds potential access problems. For instance, I was using HTTBL, and a South African member was being denied access because his IPSs entire domain range was blacklisted. Fortunately he had my email address, else I'd never even have known that he had been denied. Performance issues can also arise due to anti-spam measures checking IP addresses against known bad ranges.
Built into the SMF core are also security and anti-spam measures, among them levels of password complexity, requiring re-validation on email changes, not revealing member details to guests, etc. To ensure that a potential registrant is human, CAPTCHA and answering security questions are options.
One setting that currently appears to be enabled in LTBBQ that might be of concern if an automated registration system were implemented is the setting for viewable email addresses. Currently regular members can see the recipients email address when you click the little envelope under a member's avatar. This would allow a spammer to easily harvest individual email addresses simply by clicking the email envelope and reading the address off the form. This is mostly not a huge problem because spammers are usually more interested in harvesting the entire email list and would not both to go after individuals. However, it could potentially lead to email hacking.
Two things I would recommend in an experiment at LTBBQ:
- If an automated system were implemented, which I actually would be in favor of, I would recommend un-checking the viewable email address option under the General settings of Security and moderation in the Configuration settings, which then hides the email addresses from all but admins. Members can still send emails to recipients, but mail is sent by the SMF handler which does not display the email address.
- Due diligence by a trusted group of admins and moderators who check the forum daily for unwanted activity, and regular behind the scenes checking of the error, administration, and moderator logs for potential problem accounts
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Valid concerns have been raised in this thread. There is no way to absolutely prevent a determined hacker from getting into a system. There are typically two main security problems (others exist, but are mainly targeted against the big guys):
- Spam - easy to control, mostly by preventative measures. Once hacked, not so easy to eliminate
- Email harvesting - relatively easy to prevent, but more of a potential danger to those that use a sensitive email address when registering (I always use an email address that I can dispose of if needed; I never use a sensitive email address
LTBBQ is built on SMF forum software, which is a stable and relatively secure platform (I currently run 3 personal and 1 professional forum built on SMF, and have not had a problem on any of them in 5 years of service - knock on wood). Security mods are available such as StopForumSpam, HTTBL, Forum Firewall, and quite a few others. Each brings a new level of security, but then also adds potential access problems. For instance, I was using HTTBL, and a South African member was being denied access because his IPSs entire domain range was blacklisted. Fortunately he had my email address, else I'd never even have known that he had been denied. Performance issues can also arise due to anti-spam measures checking IP addresses against known bad ranges.
Built into the SMF core are also security and anti-spam measures, among them levels of password complexity, requiring re-validation on email changes, not revealing member details to guests, etc. To ensure that a potential registrant is human, CAPTCHA and answering security questions are options.
One setting that currently appears to be enabled in LTBBQ that might be of concern if an automated registration system were implemented is the setting for viewable email addresses. Currently regular members can see the recipients email address when you click the little envelope under a member's avatar. This would allow a spammer to easily harvest individual email addresses simply by clicking the email envelope and reading the address off the form. This is mostly not a huge problem because spammers are usually more interested in harvesting the entire email list and would not both to go after individuals. However, it could potentially lead to email hacking.
Two things I would recommend in an experiment at LTBBQ:
- If an automated system were implemented, which I actually would be in favor of, I would recommend un-checking the viewable email address option under the General settings of Security and moderation in the Configuration settings, which then hides the email addresses from all but admins. Members can still send emails to recipients, but mail is sent by the SMF handler which does not display the email address.
- Due diligence by a trusted group of admins and moderators who check the forum daily for unwanted activity, and regular behind the scenes checking of the error, administration, and moderator logs for potential problem accounts
Yeah! My thoughts exactly :D
All kidding aside, very good info.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)
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A lot of this is over my head but the human touch is always the way to go. Whatever t wants to do is Okie dokie w/ me.
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I say go with adding additional moderators or volunteers that can add people. I like the security and freedom from spammers that we enjoy here compared to other forums.
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Valid concerns have been raised in this thread. There is no way to absolutely prevent a determined hacker from getting into a system. There are typically two main security problems (others exist, but are mainly targeted against the big guys):
- Spam - easy to control, mostly by preventative measures. Once hacked, not so easy to eliminate
- Email harvesting - relatively easy to prevent, but more of a potential danger to those that use a sensitive email address when registering (I always use an email address that I can dispose of if needed; I never use a sensitive email address
LTBBQ is built on SMF forum software, which is a stable and relatively secure platform (I currently run 3 personal and 1 professional forum built on SMF, and have not had a problem on any of them in 5 years of service - knock on wood). Security mods are available such as StopForumSpam, HTTBL, Forum Firewall, and quite a few others. Each brings a new level of security, but then also adds potential access problems. For instance, I was using HTTBL, and a South African member was being denied access because his IPSs entire domain range was blacklisted. Fortunately he had my email address, else I'd never even have known that he had been denied. Performance issues can also arise due to anti-spam measures checking IP addresses against known bad ranges.
Built into the SMF core are also security and anti-spam measures, among them levels of password complexity, requiring re-validation on email changes, not revealing member details to guests, etc. To ensure that a potential registrant is human, CAPTCHA and answering security questions are options.
One setting that currently appears to be enabled in LTBBQ that might be of concern if an automated registration system were implemented is the setting for viewable email addresses. Currently regular members can see the recipients email address when you click the little envelope under a member's avatar. This would allow a spammer to easily harvest individual email addresses simply by clicking the email envelope and reading the address off the form. This is mostly not a huge problem because spammers are usually more interested in harvesting the entire email list and would not both to go after individuals. However, it could potentially lead to email hacking.
Two things I would recommend in an experiment at LTBBQ:
- If an automated system were implemented, which I actually would be in favor of, I would recommend un-checking the viewable email address option under the General settings of Security and moderation in the Configuration settings, which then hides the email addresses from all but admins. Members can still send emails to recipients, but mail is sent by the SMF handler which does not display the email address.
- Due diligence by a trusted group of admins and moderators who check the forum daily for unwanted activity, and regular behind the scenes checking of the error, administration, and moderator logs for potential problem accounts
We are on the same page pz! If we move to a more hands off method…we would make a few changes beyond even the e-mail accessibility. Unfortunately, I feel that would also change the warm fuzzy feel that we have thus far achieved here, and without any issues from bad guys. Don't mis-understand, I deal with them every day. But, so far…so good ;)
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T, any computer safety advice you want to pass along I'm here.
My personnel email was hacked and sent porn stuff to all my work mates. Also my boss mates and that's not good.
Here is the best I can offer -
1. Buy quality anti-spy/spam and virus software. There are several good ones. I would avoid Norton or Macfee due to their tendency to hog system resources - but, search on line reviews by computer magazines, and CNET. Be wary of the other "review sites" - which are in reality paid advertisements.
2. Set up your anti virus/spam/spyware software to automatically up-date. Set it for a time when you will have your computer on, but not be using it. Make it fit into your lifestyle - but make CERTAIN that it is auto up-dating. It does you no good if it is constantly behind the curve.
3.Make a habit of changing your e-mail password at least once a year. Look into software that generates your new passwords, then keeps up with them in a secure "locker" on your computer.
4. Back up your computer OFTEN. You can automate this too. Look into on-line back up and storage. It is the cheapest insurance that you can buy. Regardless of the reason - computers need to have their hard drives wiped and re-loaded on occasion. This will make it easy for you - or a svc. technician if you are not comfy with the process.
Hope this helps!
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A lot of this is over my head but the human touch is always the way to go. Whatever t wants to do is Okie dokie w/ me.
I'm with Sparky.
"T" if you want to suggest ways to protect ourselves that would be greatly appreciated ;D.
The rest is up to us.
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What if when we reach a certain participation level we have the ability to send out invites to people. People that we know would benefit from this forum and add to it at the same time. When the invite is received by the moderator then they don't need to verify the person because it is a personal invite from a trusted member. That might cut down on the time needed to join and the work load of the moderators.
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I really Don't know what is the right thing to do , but saying that ,
a mass of people on a forum doesn't makes it better.
i was invited here by a member and he said , nice people here no fights no egos.
man he was right.
in the morning i first look at the forum before i read the paper .
with the new way more likely that we will be get all the drop-out from other forums.
the Goodfellas , we know who they are . let invite them .
just me thinking aloud .
Man i never wrote So much . ;)
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What if when we reach a certain participation level we have the ability to send out invites to people. People that we know would benefit from this forum and add to it at the same time. When the invite is received by the moderator then they don't need to verify the person because it is a personal invite from a trusted member. That might cut down on the time needed to join and the work load of the moderators.
I really like this idea. We are what make this forum different and exceptional. There have been potential members I have PM'd Tee about to get them through. These are people that I knew from other forums that had great attitudes and were all around good folks.
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There are a couple of tools I like to run to help me with keeping my computers secure, running, and starting. The tools are what I use. There are others that do more or less, just be careful with anything you use that will make modifications to your registry. If you make any changes to the registry always, always make a backup of the registry. Before making any major changes to your PC have a good system backup.
1. Symantec Endpoint Protection – because I’ve been using this one for years and get it free from work to use on all of my home PC’s.
2. CCleaner - is a tool for cleaning your Windows PC and makes your computer faster and more secure.
3. Spybot Search & Destroy - is a free antispyware utility that targets adware, malicious code, and other threats. It also cleans security tracks, shreds files, and tweaks the Registry.
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I've enjoyed reading the different ideas presented. It shows a lot of thought and that the members here care about the quality of our forum!
a mass of people on a forum doesn't makes it better.
I agree 100% and think that sums up tee's philosophy very nicely. The quality of the folks here, not the quantity, is what makes the forum work so well.
When it comes to "automated" versus the "Human touch" as someone put it, overall, I like the human touch. I think that has done more to keep out not only spammers, but riff-raff as well. But I also know from experience it's a lot for a single person to handle, especially as the forum grows.
I will back whichever plan Tee decides and do whatever I can to help!
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And - I agree with you guys, that it is not - nor has it ever ben out objective to be the biggest forum. Jus the BEST forum. And - Any changes in procedures should have that as the first priority. To preserve the "personality" of LTBBQ.
Just as we all know that better quality ingredients yield a better recipe - we need to continue to seek out the kind of folks that are friendly, and community minded. It is not important that the person be experienced or well accomplished in outdoor cooking. Is IS important that they are willing to share, learn, and have a sense of humor. After - we do this for fun….not aggravation.
Just last nite - I banned a person that was applying. They had a commercial interest, and when I went over our policies with them - he copped an attitude! I laughed and thought - "How dumb is that, you want entry - and you are already showing your butt?" NOPE. NOT HERE…. :D :D :D
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I feel sorry for whoever gets thru and tries to spam in here. ☆´¯`•.¸¸. ི
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How about letting the new member apply directly and be an instant member but they cannot post until the same questions/vetting that Tee does through email is done through PM's instead?
The PM's could also be limited to just moderators until they are approved.
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How about letting the new member apply directly and be an instant member but they cannot post until the same questions/vetting that Tee does through email is done through PM's instead?
The PM's could also be limited to just moderators until they are approved.
That is essentially what we do, just in a slightly different order. When you apply - you get a welcoming message explaining that you have joined - but in order activate your privileges, you MUST respond to the e-mail. Then, we simply ask how you heard about the forum, and what kind of equipment you cook on. This has evolved over the last 2 years into a significant process, that is secure and typically we can gather enough info that we know the applicant is either a good guy - or we get no response.
The REAL beast that we have to all tackle - is to explain to applicants that our process is different. We are not trying to make anyone feel intimidated - but we are trying to protect the current members - just like we will protect them once they are a member. AND….some folks just do not read thru the message. They see that they have joined, and assume that there is nothing else to do. I have modified the message to alert them that they MUST respond in order to activate.
When we don't get a response, we wait a few days - then send a "2nd attempt to reach you" titled e-mail. And then we wait another week or so - then, if they do not respond, we send another e-mail which is a nicely worded rejection letter. They can re-apply if they wish. So - as you can see, we make a sincere effort to encourage people to join - as long as they understand that we have the best interest of our current members as our first responsibility. I would challenge anyone to examine the processes that we have in place, and compare those to any other internet forum. Then ask yourself which site does more to try and be friendly and cautious in a a difficult to maintain balance... ;D And - it is, trust me! But, I do not believe that our system is perfect, and - I am very appreciative of this discussion. Again - it is YOUR forum. It is just my job to keep it safe, sweep up and take out the trash ;) ;D
But - the fastest and most sure way to get folks approved is to contact me or one of the Admins and give us a heads up if you know someone that is applying. If you can tell us their e-mail or user name - that will be an instant approval. But - be sure that you know them well enough to be comfortable doing that. Either thru being on another forum with them, and watching how the respond to others or just someone that you have a friendship with.
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Do you direct email them Tee? Or message through PM's that also forward a email message?
Maybe they do not see the email but might see the PM message when they log in.
Or how about a message that pops up when they are not full members that states they are not and what they need to do each time when they log on. Something they click on to close. A large message. And the message can be displayed when they try to post or start a new topic.
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Do you direct email them Tee? Or message through PM's that also forward a email message?
Maybe they do not see the email but might see the PM message when they log in.
Or how about a message that pops up when they are not full members that states they are not and what they need to do each time when they log on. Something they click on to close. A large message. And the message can be displayed when they try to post or start a new topic.
That is a great idea (the pop up one ) if they miss this massage they mast be @$%^# .
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On a side note concerning email address access ...
A member can always edit their Profile -> Account Settings and un-check the "allow users to email me". If someone wants to contact me they can PM me within the Forum and I can choose to let them know another email address to contact me with.
I personally never use my primary/private email address - This email address is either one provided by my ISP or one from a domain that I own. Instead I create and use one of the many well known FREE email addresses like gmail, yahoo, outlook, or gmx just to name a few for Forum emails. To minimize risk you can access your email using their webmail access ... Just my 2-cents worth.
As far as new member accounts goes I'll defer to the knowledgeable people who have commented to date. Since I'm a member and work to keep my nose clean I don't see any problems from my end. But having been a sysadmin over the years I sympathize with those whose responsibility it is to keep this Forum secure ... Keep up the great work!! :)
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Do you direct email them Tee? Or message through PM's that also forward a email message?
Maybe they do not see the email but might see the PM message when they log in.
Or how about a message that pops up when they are not full members that states they are not and what they need to do each time when they log on. Something they click on to close. A large message. And the message can be displayed when they try to post or start a new topic.
I have tried both. I currently use forum software e-mailing them - but it comes from the LTBBQ2@yahoo.com address. So it is funneled thru LTBBQ software - but it can be returned to a common e-mail address.
I can have George look at the possibility of a pop up message, tho it's physical size will be a pre-determined size by the software. It would need to tell them to contact an Admin. in order to un-lock their membership ...
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What ever T decides is fine by me. I don't know anything about how a forum operates or the internal working of it.
I do know that when the site first went on line I tried to join using Sailor and the system said my email was a noted spamming email. I tried to use my gmail account and got the same message. I gave up trying to join. Then tried again about 6 or so months later and got the same messages.
10.5 dropped T an email and we figured out that I had to use Sailor1 instead of Sailor and the system let me in. I know several people that were on other forums that have tried to sign up and they had the same problem. They just gave up trying to join. Many of us would know them if they ever made it to the site.
This is a great site and we have top notch people here. I just about have stopped going to other sites and now call this one home. I will try to keep my room clean ;D
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Sailor - we really want to make it as easy for folks to join as possible. So, if you know anyone that has tried to join and they get a "spammer" msg" - please get in touch with me. We have ways to help them.
But - the real danger is for them. If their mail has been hacked, and they don't address that…they just make themselves an easy target for a lot of problems. The other aspect is that - if they don't fix their own security problems with their e-mail ( by changing their password and name ) and we let them in - the opportunity for the hacker to follow them in here to LTBBQ by stealing their info from their e-mail inbox is real. And - we can't tell that this has happened until it is too late.
SO - we ALL really have a responsibility to each other, and everyone in our contacts list to maintain our computers in a spyware/and hi--jacker free manner. It is cheap, and it is the right thing to do. It will prevent so many problems.
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If I remember correctly, I had to message Muebe so that he could contact T. I don't remember the particulars of it. Didn't take too long.
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I had to send Tee a check and a first round draft pick ;D
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Okay, I am one who was using my normal ISP email address. I just went into my profile and changed it
to my Gmail email. It took all of about 1 minute from the time I submitted the change until I got the email
reactivating my account with the Gmail email address. Real fast and simple process. This is first class customer
service and a real painless procedure.
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Hey, I got on, that is all that matters to me. It doesn't seem to be broke so don't go overboard trying to fix it.
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What I want to know is who vouched for the Turtle? ??? 8)
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What I want to know is who vouched for the Turtle? ??? 8)
Well - we needed one guy to remind us to eat more fiber….lest we become too full of crap and get really cranky…. :D ;D…JK Turtle!
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What I want to know is who vouched for the Turtle?
Who would refuse and risk incurring worldwide reptilian wrath?
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What I want to know is who vouched for the Turtle?
Who would refuse and risk incurring worldwide reptilian wrath?
Human sacrifice! Dogs and cats, living together! Mass hysteria! ???
Your right Turtle not worth it! Welcome to the forum 8)
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What I want to know is who vouched for the Turtle?
Who would refuse and risk incurring worldwide reptilian wrath?
I think that plague was in one of the lost books of The Bible.