Uncovering the Origins of Spam Names: Sir & Madam Spam

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the origins and characteristics of pseudonyms used by spammers, particularly focusing on their alliterative and metric nature. Participants explore patterns in these names and the broader implications of spam activities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that spam pseudonyms often follow a pattern of being Anglo, alliterative, and typically three or four syllables, similar to names adopted by actors.
  • One participant humorously comments on the spelling errors in spammer names, suggesting that intelligence is not a prerequisite for spamming.
  • There is a mention of software that can generate spam emails and names, potentially explaining the prevalence of certain types of pseudonyms.
  • A participant raises a question about the number of organizations or individuals involved in spamming activities.
  • Another participant cites a claim that a significant portion of spam (upwards of 70%) may originate from a single organization, which is said to be operated by one individual using many overseas computers.
  • Humorous remarks are made regarding the implications of targeting spammers, including a joking reference to missile practice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of curiosity and humor about the topic, but there is no consensus on the origins or implications of spam pseudonyms, and multiple viewpoints are presented regarding the nature of spamming organizations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes speculative claims about the origins of spam names and the effectiveness of spam software, but lacks concrete evidence or detailed analysis of the claims made.

Loren Booda
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Where do so many spammers get those universally alliterative, metric pseudonyms, i. e., "Gretchen Powers"?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
Compare the "personal" pseudonyms of spam senders.

Do you see any patterns? Usually Anglo, of certain meter, three or four syllables, nonreferential and alliterative; e. g., "Sam Speedman." Almost like names actors adopt.
 
Lo-ren Boo-da?

- Warren
 
I find it amusing when I receive mail from spammers who can't even spell their names correctly. But then, I don't think anyone ever insisted that much intelligence is required to be a spammer. Fortunately, there is software that will not only harvest thousands of e-mails from websites but also write the e-mail for these poor idiots. So spammers using spam software are likely going to use a name they can actually spell, which may rule out most normal names.
 
Are there any numbers as to how many organizations and/or individuals there are engaged in this activity?
 
I've heard the figure that upwards of 70% of spam is actually the work of just one organization. This organization is composed of one man and a LOT of overseas computers.

- Warren
 
If that's the case, I'd say we've just found the perfect target for tamohawk missile target practice...
 
http://www.mugshots.com/Favorites/Eddy_Marin.htm

- Warren
 
  • #10
Originally posted by chroot
I've heard the figure that upwards of 70% of spam is actually the work of just one organization. This organization is composed of one man and a LOT of overseas computers.

- Warren
Fascinating, I had no idea, and thank you for the information.

Originally posted by chroot
http://www.mugshots.com/Favorites/Eddy_Marin.htm

- Warren
LOL, that is really funny. The mug shot makes him look like a character from a Drug Cartel, haha.

Originally posted by enigma
If that's the case, I'd say we've just found the perfect target for tamohawk missile target practice...


[edited for a thanks]
 
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