[Ham-Computers] Spam

[jeff]

WØQFC wrote:
> Most likely I am not alone with this problem, but it is getting to the stage 
> that it is becoming a real hassle.

No, you're not alone, sir.
Everybody who has an email account is similarly affected.

What works 100%?
Nothing.

What works 90%?
Nothing


The best spam filter I've ever seen is the one I use at work (Xwall). 
Unfortunately it's not available for client-side use.

The next best one I've seen is the one my provider uses.  Unfortunately 
I'm not sure how to get your provider to use it.  It's done through 
Postini and you could speak to your provider about it, if it would do 
any good.


Here's the problem:
Spam filtering is reactive by nature.  As soon as a filter is shown 
spam, it can block it.  Unfortunately the spammers then find a new way 
to get past it, repeating the cycle.


There are a number of decent filters available, but they will require 
setup and training (care and feeding).  If you keep in mind that it's a 
constant process, you'll be more satisfied with the software.

Look for something with a Bayesian filter in it.  This helps you train 
and catch more spam.  Spamassassin is pretty decent, but I used it under 
linux - check around to see if there's a Win version.  If not, other 
software used its (open)source code and changed the name.  Most of the 
filters are free.  Paid ones don't appear to be any more effective (to me).

SpamPal is a name I remember too.  I think I used it before assassin, 
but it wasn't as good.

Do a bit of web surfing and Googling to find more.


You can also research a bit more to find other things to block, like IP 
ranges, countries (CHINA), character sets, common phrases, etc.


Good luck!

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