Re:As much as I hate spam, the real problem is.... (Score 1)

Open mail servers are a problem, but not the real problem. An open mail server is like an unlocked door. It makes crime simpler, but it doesn't casue it. Besides, most SPAM doesn't come this way. You get SPAMers that run their own mail server on a dialup IP. Then you have the sites that are set up just for SPAMing. (At least one site accepts messages on one IP, and then sends them out on another IP, so it doesn't look like an open realy...) I can see two ways that might work to curb SPAM. The first is to set up some type of key system for mail servers so we always know who is sending the E-mail. You would have to apply for a key for your server and provide identification. Then any mail would have to be signed by the server using the key when it sends it out. (Something like PGP signed e-mail, but signed by the server.) Recieving servers would check the signiture and reject forged mail. Sending SPAM would get your key revolked. This would not affect most users, because they would send E-mail using their ISP's mail server. The problem with this is upgrading all the mail servers, and agreeing who issues the keys, etc. The second way would be have laws requiring opt-in lists for all advertising e-mail, with stiff punishments. The problem here is enforcement. Tracking down SPAM can be hard. Now, if they have a toll-free number, or a PO box, it can be done, but it requires internet save law enforcement. Who pays for it? What we realy need is some way to make the SPAMmers pay for sending the messages. Make it cost more then what it brings in...