Something to do with Microsoft and Spam

Microsoft has released a new set of tools to help internet service providers combat spam in conjunction with its Hotmail email system.

So far, I've read several articles regarding these services and haven't been able to make heads or tails of them. Most of the writers seem to be copy and pasting out of Microsoft's press releases without understanding what they're up to.

It appears to involve technologies referred to as Smart Network Data Services and the ill-fated Sender ID. Microsoft has been promoting its Sender ID technology for some time, but has failed to attract industry partners. Sender ID would help identify the party sending an email. It would not block spam itself, but it could be used as part of a junk e-mail control system.

The services are targeted at ISPs and "bulk email senders." It looks like Microsoft is publicizing information regarding what percentage of incoming email is filtered from various IP blocks. I'm not sure if this is a good idea or not. This may actually be useful to spammers trying to bypass email filter software.

What is clear, is the individual featured next to the Sender ID link is exceedingly attractive. I suspect it's a stock photo, but if anyone knows the identity of them, feel free to contact the owner of this website.

Microsoft may better spend its time on client-side anti-spam efforts. Outlook spam filters that actually work would be a good place to start.

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