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A spambot is a computer program made or designed by a person or group of people to place spam messages or make a post have a high number of views within a short period of time. These messages are often commercial, but occasionally are posted for other reasons.
Characteristics of Bots
How to Detect Spambots
Spambots can usually be identified by posting nonsensical jargon or external links not related to Scratch or the topic at hand in a discussion. Spambots are also known to have random usernames and often give out emails.
Where are Bot Messages Mostly Found?
Bot messages are most often found on the forums for their ability to post links and their standard design across the internet. This can make the forums most vulnerable to bots. In order to combat this, a 60 Second Rule is in place (increased to 120 seconds for New Scratchers). However, bot messages can also be found in comments, studios, or projects.
Combatting Spambots
 Warning: | Do not reply to any messages posted by spambots. This creates more work for the Scratch Team. Simply report the messages. |
To deal with these bots, simply Report the offending comment, and the Scratch Team will take care of it. You may also use contact us if the situation requires extra explanation or if too many comments have been posted to report them all.
