So - one of the sites we run is CSS Top Sites. Sort of a side-thing (consider it an experiment), we have an automated checker that makes sure that sites are using our HTML code properly - 1. That it includes the link back (isn’t just an image) and 2. That it isn’t using CSS to hide it.

So lo and behold the latest example was GeniuneStyle.net. In the footer was only the image, encapsulated in a div that made it invisible. People are so wonderful. So the system sent him an automated-strongly worded email about how if he wants to use our service, he better include the link back and make it visible.

As most do he removed the HTML without a single peep. Some apologize, but most (being the self-entitled people they are) simply remove the HTML, shamed at being caught.

But today I Just got an email from him. Not any regular email - a mass mail. A mass mail littered with typos (eg ‘If your message was sent’ - missing letter bolded). And not only that - he had the temerity to include everyone’s email in the To field. Now I have a list of people to spam - excellent!

And so our good friend Chris Vincent provides us a nice laundry list of things not to do:

• Use another site’s services but modify the HTML for your own needs.
• When busted - man-up and admit you screwed up.
• Sending a mass email to someone that you were basically bilking for traffic.
• Have typos littering your mass mail.
• Having everyone’s email in the To field for easy email-list generation.

I have of course emailed him this post and look forward to his thoughts.