Inbox receptionist!For all the hubbub about SPAM I can’t understand why we don’t use the same technique that works so well in the real world? If I want to come see someone in a busy office I generally need an appointment, I could get in without an appointment if I have a relationship with my intended and it is confirmed through an intermediary called a receptionist. And if the person I wish to communicate with allows me in.

In the real world!How many times have you entered an establishment to find the little plaque on the door that states “solicitation prohibited”. Well this is done because the reception person is overwhelmed with pleas for whatever. They mealy point to the policy sign “solicitation prohibited” and, end of conversation.

In the virtual world of email!What would be the same mechanism in the virtual world of email? Something, an agent that sits in front of your inbox checking that every communication has an invitation to enter, and unsolicited communication gets an appointment! This is the dynamic behind Challenge and Response SPAM management.

Like my office, my inbox has become a space where I conduct business. I don’t want every offer for large body parts compete for time I should be spending on my business focus. At the same time I don’t want to be completely closed off to that idea, individual, or customer that might just walk through the door. I need a receptionist for my inbox.

Inbox Receptionist? How does this actually work? Incoming email is asked if it has a previous relationship with the intended recipient. If it does by virtue of being in a list of known communicants the messages in allowed to proceed to the inbox. If it does not have a previously established relationship the sender is asked to establish on by doing something. This simple action will eliminate most of the onslaught of unwanted communications.

I as the intended target of these communications maintain the control over who gets in and who does not.

This is the theory behind this product http://www.clearframe.com/cblock.htm

BC