Recently, we had a client who had issues with spammers registering on their web site. Typically they do this to spam your forum. Since oftentimes this is done by bots and not humans, setting the "New User Account Activation" option in Global Configuration to "Yes" will prevent them from ever actually activating the account. On top of that the email address is often not legit either. This does not solve the problem of Administrators getting the New User Registration emails.

Over the last I do not know how long, I have been looking for a solution. I am pleased to say that I have found one that I am very pleased with. It is called AlphaRegistration. And, it's free.

Since this is not intended to be a full review of the extension, I will not be explaining all of the features. You can however find a full list of features (and download the extension) on he Alphaplug website: http://www.alphaplug.com/index.php/alpharegistration.html

The major feature is the use of reCAPTCHA. Although it may seem like a small deal, I've always loved how reCAPTCHA has a "refresh" button for times when you can not make out what the words say.

Even though this cuts spam accounts down a lot, it does not stop actual spammers (humans) from registering on your web site.

I am sure many of you have used similar extensions that do the same thing. If you have used them and think the one that you use is better, feel free to comment below telling us why. Who knows, we might like it better.

To comply with FTC regulations, we are required to disclose any connection we have with the extension we are "endorsing". Although, I do not feel as though I am endorsing or advertising for Alphaplug, I do realize that it will have the same affect. I do not know anyone at Alphaplug (at least I do not think I do) nor was I compensated in any way for this blog post.

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BoxingChaos said:

	This seems like the most logical anti spam bot fighter. I did everything said, installed, got my api keys and I am ready. I do hope this works lol but from the looks of things, this is better than what the joomla core has to offer which is nothing lol thanks for the tip.
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February 24, 2010 | url
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BoxingChaos said:

	Had it not been for your article, I would still be looking up and down and all around the joomla extensions directory for a module, component or plugin to help me with these damn spammers. Your find and your advise saved me from what I have been looking for at least a few months now. You da man!
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February 26, 2010 | url
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