There are a number of things you can do to help reduce the amount of spam that you receive.
These methods can be divided into two categories; Prevention and Filtration.
What is spam?
Spam refers to electronic junk mail. In addition to being very annoying, spam also
uses up a lot of network bandwidth. The use of software filters in e-mail programs,
and the use of services like hidemyemail.net, can be used to reduce spam recieved
through e-mail.
How does Hidemyemail work?
At hidemyemail we take your email address and encode it. This process makes your email
address look like a random string of code rather than an email address. You can then
post this encoded address, with a link to hidemyemail.net, on places like message boards,
usenet, blogs and myspace without the fear that spambots will pick it up.
What is a spambot?
A "spambot" is a computer program that searches the webpages for email addresses. When it
finds an email address it adds it to its list. Once enough email addresses have been collected
the owner of the program will sell the list to people who want to send you junk email.
How will people know my real address?
Hidemyemail uses a common encoding system known as base64. If the people reading your encoded
address know about base64, they can decode it themselves. However, it is always a good idea to
include a link to www.hidemyemail.net so that people unfamiliar with base64 can use the website
to decode it.
How do I decode an encoded address?
Decoding an email address using the hidemyemail system is very straight forward. Simply enter
the encoded address in the text box on the homepage, select "Show Email" from the drop down
menu, and click submit. The decoded address will then be displayed on the same page.
Will you keep my email address?
Occassionally we will turn logging on in order to ensure that the service is not being abused.
When this occurs, a small red "light" will be displayed on the homepage to warn users. When the light
goes off the maintanance stops and the entries made during that period are removed from our server.
How can I trust that you wont sell my email address?
In a nutshell, you'll have to take our word for it. The service we provide is undertaken as an
extreme loathing of spam. We do not force or service on anyone, if you dont want to use our website
by all means dont.
How do I setup filters with my email program?
Depending on your email client, you will need to follow one of the following links:
Where can I find more information?
Below are listed a number of resources on the topic of junk mail and spam prevention: