I switched to manual verification.
I send a personal email back to new sign-ups and don't throw the switch until
they respond.
On occasion my email goes to the spam folder, but any real hobbyist notices that
they did not get access and they investigate.
Spammers will not reply to a personal email. If they can't do their thing they are off to
the next forum.
Here is what I send:
-----
Hello...
Due to automated sign-ups and mind
numbing advertising. I have had to
switch to manual verification.
So, if you would please reply to this
email for me, I'll then know it's a real
person.
I am sorry for the hassle.
-----
It's not ideal, but works...
Joe