I have read a couple of posts regarding spam and today (19 July) there are 2 more in this section. There are also a few in the Shared Works.
I have the same feelings as those who have already expressed theirs so I won't repeat them. However, considering that the Admin's comments seemed to indicate a more robust website is being built, I have a few suggestions on how to make it even more secure from spamming, as follows:
1. There are scripts that can be embedded (ex. CAPTCHA (CSS, JavaScript)) that hide details from spam bots, where only human interaction is possible to interact.
2. Filter further by using questions that humans can only answer but bots can't.
3. Incorporate in the website a mechanism to capture IP address from anyone logging in so it can built a table where it can block addresses that attempt to post spam. This should include a tool to delete automatically any spam submission.
Whoever is developing the new website should be aware of the above. I am a little bit concerned (diplomatically speaking) why it is taking so long to build a website from a professional developer/designer. But I could also volunteer as one tester prior to going live, if you are willing to give me sets of tests and tools to do it.
Regards,
Marlon
Hi Marlon,
Your comments are most appreciated as well as your offer of user testing, so we'll certainly make a note of your name and user profile when we reach the final stages of development.The suggestions are something that the developers are aware of.
We completely understand the concerns and comments of users, and there is a huge amount of work being done on the functionality available to all using the site, some of it more complex which requires a bit of time and patience, on our side as well. We want to get it right and deliver something which is highly personlised so that our online members of writers, artists, playwrights (and everything else in between!) will be able to make the most out of this website and the numerous resources we provide.
All best,
W&A Admin