What is considered SPAM?

[Larry]

What is SPAM?

SPAM is unsolicited posts that are made to self serve the poster.  They can be links to other websites that sell products or services.  They can even be just links to other online communities in an attempt to solicit new members to sign up.  Basically it's someone trying to use their posts to promote or advertise themselves, their products or their website without being solicited to do so.  Many people sign up and do this in their first posts.  It is pretty obvious the only reason they signed up is to promote the linked sites.

BANNER ADS IN SIG LINES.

Large images in sig lines are popular, and for now they are allowed only if it's a personal thing.  Do not make a banner ad to promote a website or product.

What is NOT SPAM?

If a long time, active member of the forum occasionally posts a link to a cool site they found, this is not SPAM.  They are just sharing a cool link.  The key words are long time, active member.  Their active participation in the forum allows them some wiggle room in this area.

If a long time, active member of the forum occasionally posts a link for a piece of gear they are selling.  While this is technically SPAM we will allow it on a limited basis for long time members as long as they don't abuse it.

If a person links a website in response to another poster's need.  Let's say someone is looking for online guitar lessons.  If another member knows of a site that offers guitar lessons, he could post a link.  

HOW CAN I PROMOTE MY OWN SITE?

We allow you to put your own website link on your profile.  You can also put that link in your sig line.   Please do NOT put banner ads in your sig line.  If someone asks you about your website, then you can respond to them, just don't go overboard.