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If the gradual engagement includes a reasonably complex operation, like writing an article and then creating an account to post it, does this obviate the need for a CAPTCHA?

I'm curious, because I hate CAPTCHAs, but only slightly less than I hate being used as a splog.

I think it might, so I'm feeling happy.

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Why would that remove the need for a CAPTCHA? Normal procedure: Register -> write spam. This method: write spam -> register.

Hrm. Fair enough. I was assuming the "write" step would include something atypical enough to screw up a program that just looks for "blogs" to "comment on." But, that might not be the case for everyone (or even for me).

Bots won't be able to ab/use a site with gradual engagement, because the whole process would be too difficult for them to follow, I presume. Thus no need for captchas.

That depends on the complexity of the bot. A general purpose bot might not get through a complex process, but someone could spend just a few minutes to customize a bot to a particular site. CAPTCHAs are reasonably good at stopping bots.

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