PM Spamming

**Tamlin** · 02-06-2010

Dear Biorusteers,

We are currently experiencing an attack by a Private Message spammer with the username Eternity. Several members have reported PMs sent by this user, and "her" account has been banned.

Unfortunately, Eternity is still logged on and apparently sending PMs - I suspect the ban won't come into effect until "she" logs off.

So, in the meantime, if you receive a PM from Eternity, just delete it. Do not reply to the message, and definitely do not click on any links within the message.

Thank you.

**Man1c M0g** · 02-06-2010

I have an idea how to stop this that works a treat on another forum I administer. I could disable the PM send functions to basic members, and add in an upgrade user group that activates PM once a member has have 14 days membership AND 10 posts.

What do you guys think?

**unleash** · 02-07-2010

Sounds good to me, but isnt there a simple way to simply ban her IP, and then log her off? Cant we do that remotely in some manner? Cause it would kinda suck if these tricks work...

<-- not going to bring the spammers onto good ideas! -->

Well I dunno, but should a ban also log someone of and shut the connection down? Cause when in peril there should be a way to quickly get rid of a connection between the server and the user, right?

ah well, its 4am here so if this looks like gibberish, it probably is

**supertackyman** · 02-07-2010

what about taking the site offline for a few minutes? wouldnt that cause "eternity" to be logged out? then you can ban thier heiney.

**Tamlin** · 02-07-2010

Well it seems like Eternity has finally gone. I see that "her" account has been deleted (I'm guessing by M0g) so hopefully that'll be an end to "her" activities.

This is actually only the second time I've seen this happen at BioRUST, so I don't think it requires too much of a heavy-handed approach. However, I think M0g's suggestion might be worth implementing.

**Man1c M0g** · 02-07-2010

Okidokey. I've implemented a system whereby you need 7 days membership *AND* 5 posts minimum to get PM access. This should help mitigate the problem of PM spam.

Let me know if you notice any problems with the new system.

**MoodsR4Cattle** · 02-07-2010

Excellent idea Mog.

**unleash** · 02-08-2010

Yep will do mog! Now lets hope that keeps the spambots out!