This **** is ridiculous.
I do think that if the sent/inbox were.merged instead of 2 different boxes it would cut it down, at least On the forum. They wouldnt be able to use similar names to send messages on the site if you have already messaged. Outside the forum is another story, scummy for sure.
it’s getting very risky to buy or sell here. i just had to pull one of my ads because a scammer contacted my potential buyer, and ruined any possible sale. it should not be our responsibility to call them out after the fact, especially when there are no restrictions to access the marketplace to new members. i can’t comprehend why INTERNET BRANDS doesn’t take some sort of action here to at least make some sort of change to how new members are able to access and interact in the marketplace.
how are they getting member phone numbers?
unfortunately it’s not possible to defeat human beings 100% of the time.
we have the same issues across all of our communities and continue to develop new tools and approaches but an informed community who know what to look for is everybody’s best defence.