Replace SMTP, damn it!
Spam has exploded in the last several weeks. 9 out of 10 emails in 2006 were spam. It’s been so bad it has caused delays and even shutdowns on some networks. It’s ridiculous. The SMTP protocol is way, way past overdue for replacement with something that has authentication built in, and it really pisses me off that it hasn’t been replaced by now. I am sick to death of people saying that it isn’t practical — the choice will soon be either to replace SMTP or to stop using email at all. Stop making excuses and replace the damned protocol. Here’s one suggestion. Here’s another. Get it done.
At this point I don’t even think it’s worth the effort of reporting spam to services like SpamCop. That’s like calling the police every time you see someone driving over the speed limit. It’s just a waste of time, because it makes no difference.