Spam-Filter-Free Options (Was: Computer repair shop)

[VirginSnow at vfemail.net]

> From: Bill McGonigle <bill at bfccomputing.com>
> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 01:44:45 -0400
> Cc: gnhlug-discuss at mail.gnhlug.org

> > For the record, my list of "dim-witted" ideas also includes things
> > like soft power, spam filters, and iPhones.
> 
> 
> OK, I'll bite :)  How do you avoid using spam filters?  Sounds lovely  
> from here.

Spam filters are a bad idea for one very simple reason: THEY DON'T
WORK.  The don't work, because they CAN'T work, because the approach
is flawed.  Until we can write programs capable of passing the Turing
test, spam filters are destined to either (or both of):

 (1) Let spam through, and/or
 (2) Block legitimate mail.

The most accurate way of filtering spam is with that little key on the
keyboard labeled "Delete".  Spam is ugly and uninteresting and very
easy to spot.  It's also very simple to get rid of: Delete, delete!

Alas, companies marketing spam filters and email services try their
best to instill false confidence in these tools.  Fear + poorly
planned solution + implementation of flawed design + advertising =
revenue.  It works for selling deodorant, selling war, and selling
spam filters too.

To say something is dim-witted is not to say that it isn't popular!