As a script programmer, I develop tools to aid website owners. One of these scripts is a PHP form handler to send information from a web form to the website owners. This script has been published as a free resource for any legitimate website owner to download and use. It is common practice for script developers to leave a “credit” tag in the footer of the script indicating their name and website as the creator. Such is the case here.
Apparently, this group of SPAMmers downloaded the form handler and is using it to handle their fake unsubscribe page. On the fake page, the credit line was left intact in the footer, showing my website as the developer of the script. I am deeply disappointed that they would abuse a free resource in such a fashion. The script has a “terms of use” which restricts it from being used for SPAM. Unfortunately, I have no control over what these dishonest groups do on their own site.
Immediately upon learning of a new SPAMMER, I report the offending parties to all available contacts for their domain, hosting service and registrar. I also submit SPAM reports to the ISP and other spam reporting agencies on the Internet. I urge you to do the same.
A few tips on combating SPAM:
- Never use an “unsubscribe” link in a SPAM email. To do so simply tells the SPAMmers that your email address is valid and you did receive the message. From that point on, your email address will be passed along to other SPAM groups and it will only get worse.
- Never click a link in an email that claims to be from a bank, payment center, prize distribution office or other money-related entity.
- Report SPAM to regulating agencies. These agencies log all SPAM reports and are attempting to create legislation to help control (and reduce) SPAM.
- Utilize a SPAM filter for your email program. Many large companies (MSN, Yahoo, Earthlink) offer free SPAM filters as part of their email packages. Many hosting companies offer free tools like SPAM Assassin that you can activate on your email account.
Listed below are places you can submit a complaint about the unwanted emails. Be sure to copy/paste the entire email header when sending a complaint.
http://www.spamcop.net/
http://www.ftc.gov/spam/
http://abuse.net/
http://www.govspot.com/ask/spam.htm