I've noticed some spam outfit has been joining various forums apparently using some sort of software that enters random user names and email addresses, typically GMAIL email addresses.

I'm taking steps to counteract the problem. I believe I've deleted all the users and their messages. To join a forum now also requires a user to slide a colored box, as opposed to clicking on a button.

Finally, this automated spam can be totally avoided by making a forum "CanPost." This means that all new users are unable to post messages until they contact the forum manager via email to request posting privileges. Of course this places yet another barrier in the way of new users. CanPost is a last ditch way to get rid of auto spammers and should not be used unless you desire it for some other purpose or the spam becomes inordinate.

Most of these auto spammers originate in Russia and I'm working on a way to simply eliminate all posting from Russia.