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Originally Posted by ddallas
(Post 20824200)
+1
I think Daraius had been trying to position his blog as being more straightforward and transparent than the other blogs. If he would have introduced the guest blogger "And now here's an article about Lufthansa by Drew," people would have applauded and it would have been a non-issue. As it was, when readers mentioned Drew's byline in comments, if Drew wrote the article Daraius should have quickly acknowledged that Drew wrote the article. I believe that would have been the smarter thing to do. Removing Drew's name as author of the article and not responding to questions about it is what has created Authorgate and made it an issue. |
Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20820004)
It's deceitful. Usually it's done to make it appear as though multiple people share the same point of view, or at least more people do than otherwise care to comment. The goal then is to persuade readers based on frequency with which an opinion is hed.
It's used as a cover for spam. If you post the same message 20 times, I think it's reasonable to view doing so as spam meant to drown out productive conversation. But if 20 different people do it, that's not spam that's a whole bunch of people expressing an opinion in the same way. Ultimately if your concern is "deceiving the readers" (though I am always surprised by how many people here are concerned with these nameless, faceless 'other' readers that are clearly downtrodden and in need of sympathy and protection) then it seems like you should also not want deceipt by commenters. Just as you also wouldn't want deceit by forum community members who post misinformation on deal threads in order to prevent people from taking advantage of deals and keep those deals alive longer for themselves. The most outrageously "deceitful" action is posting content as if it was your own work, rather than admitting is was paid content - and it's even worse when you refuse to answer when called out about the fraud (which is what it is) while holding yourself out to be as clean as the driven snow. Sort of reminds me of Bernie Madoff in a way - an "upstanding" citizen by outward appearances, but a scumbag and a fraud in reality. |
MMS has now instituted an official censoring policy. It now has the honor of being the 2nd blog in the last 5 years that I've deleted from my RSS and reading rotation. Too bad; I used to give that guy some referrals.
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Originally Posted by hotelmotel
(Post 20829136)
MMS has now instituted an official censoring policy. It now has the honor of being the 2nd blog in the last 5 years that I've deleted from my RSS and reading rotation. Too bad; I used to give that guy some referrals.
MMS crunched the numbers. He saw how much dough he's pulling in from this 10 piece LH filler Mother in Law gets kicked to the curb As is usually the case with CC links, integrity can be bought |
This whole thread has been amusing to read. It's quite enjoyable to see you bloggers ripping each other apart. Enjoy hiding behind the accusations of censorship - the average reader can tell that this is internet drama to discredit each other so that you can each get more referral links. I agree that a noob may be awed by the Lufthansa post that MMS passed off as his own. However, I think that people like me, who are casual players at this points game, have quickly determined which blogs contain useful, well-researched information, and which ones are just credit card shills which promote the same cards over and over again with their affiliate links. You are all just making yourselves look bad. Just my two cents.
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Originally Posted by dgxoxo
(Post 20833989)
This whole thread has been amusing to read. It's quite enjoyable to see you bloggers ripping each other apart. Enjoy hiding behind the accusations of censorship - the average reader can tell that this is internet drama to discredit each other so that you can each get more referral links. I agree that a noob may be awed by the Lufthansa post that MMS passed off as his own. However, I think that people like me, who are casual players at this points game, have quickly determined which blogs contain useful, well-researched information, and which ones are just credit card shills which promote the same cards over and over again with their affiliate links. You are all just making yourselves look bad. Just my two cents.
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Originally Posted by yerffej201
(Post 20834041)
I'm fairly sure most of the posters here do not have blogs with affiliate links.
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Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20834950)
Out of choice, or lack of readership?
You should do an Affiliate Links 101 post to educate us all;) |
Originally Posted by gpapadop
(Post 20835556)
To me, at least, it is mostly out of ignorance and lack of time to research this confusing area.
You should do an Affiliate Links 101 post to educate us all;) But someone told me that I should keep them shorter.... Ill see what I can do for you George. |
Recommended reading for those interested in the economics behind affiliate linking which seems to be the basis for increased censorship on blogs:
Loyalty Traveler - BAcon Bits about credit card affiliate marketing |
Originally Posted by bubb1
(Post 20836603)
Recommended reading for those interested in the economics behind affiliate linking which seems to be the basis for increased censorship on blogs:
The only example of new/increased comment filtering seems to be speculation about MMS, and that's driven by 'authorgate' (and while the posts in question contain affiliate links, the issue isn't the links as much as questions over who wrote the posts). An equally plausible explanation for comment censoring -- if it's on the increase and as I say I only know of speculation about one blog possibly changing its approach -- is all of the snarky comments about affiliate linking. It doesn't seem like censorship is on the rise, although it certainly exists (and has existed) on some blogs (for a long time). And it does seem like much of what's deleted (and has been on those blogs that censor) relates to affilaite credit card stuff. But whether that's a function of affiliate links per se or the increasing level of snark by some (including some that frequent this forum) is itself debatable. ;) |
Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20834950)
Out of choice, or lack of readership?
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Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20836634)
The only example of new/increased comment filtering seems to be speculation about MMS, and that's driven by 'authorgate' (and while the posts in question contain affiliate links, the issue isn't the links as much as questions over who wrote the posts).
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Can we add FT to the list of places where comments are censored?
Or have we all forgotten that comments get censored here, any talk about mods gets summary dismissal and stern warnings? As is common in this new forum, I feel I see a pot and a black kettle |
Originally Posted by gpapadop
(Post 20835556)
To me, at least, it is mostly out of ignorance and lack of time to research this confusing area.
You should do an Affiliate Links 101 post to educate us all;) |
Not sure talking about affiliate links is the proper thread to do this:D
Well, thanks a lot for telling me you will never use (my non existent) affiliate links! You will be shocked about the email I get telling me to ADD them. I am still shocked about it. Like I said, no time to look into this, it takes away from keeping up with the content. And I don't like to do filler posts. But, I must admit, if I had any idea how long this blog would take...I would have stayed out of it!! One day I will likely make sure my friends and family support me as I have managed to help them fly for free for so many years:D If you don't click on mine please click on Frequent Miler's links. Content and non pushing should always be rewarded. For the dear moderator: To keep this relevant, TBB does not censor. I need to take my daughter for an xray of her ankle. Later amigos |
Originally Posted by ma91pmh
(Post 20841877)
Can we add FT to the list of places where comments are censored?
Or have we all forgotten that comments get censored here, any talk about mods gets summary dismissal and stern warnings? As is common in this new forum, I feel I see a pot and a black kettle |
Originally Posted by ma91pmh
(Post 20841877)
Can we add FT to the list of places where comments are censored?
Or have we all forgotten that comments get censored here, any talk about mods gets summary dismissal and stern warnings? As is common in this new forum, I feel I see a pot and a black kettle
Originally Posted by kokonutz
(Post 20843466)
Unfortunately, this forum is only to discuss external M&P resources, not this one. :(;)
Thank you and regards Oliver2002 Mod EM&PR forum |
Originally Posted by kokonutz
(Post 20843466)
Unfortunately, this forum is only to discuss external M&P resources, not this one. :(;)
In other words -- here's how these external resources are similar (and thus duplicating efforts, and even how well they are doing in duplicating efforts) and how these external resources are different? Or as Flyertalkers can we simply dish it out but not take it, this transparency and scrutiny I've seen you write about so frequently? |
Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20843531)
Or as Flyertalkers can we simply dish it out but not take it, this transparency and scrutiny I've seen you write about so frequently?
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Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20843531)
Wouldn't it make sense for Flyertalkers to use Flyertalk as a reference point for those discussions? :confused:
In other words -- here's how these external resources are similar (and thus duplicating efforts, and even how well they are doing in duplicating efforts) and how these external resources are different? Or as Flyertalkers can we simply dish it out but not take it, this transparency and scrutiny I've seen you write about so frequently? And yes, one of those TOS is to not talk much about moderation lest you get censored/moderated. Lord knows I have had my run ins with transparency around this issue here, and have paid the price in suspensions. But, again, THIS forum is about external miles and points. There are places to talk about FlyerTalk's policies...this just isn't it. |
Originally Posted by kokonutz
(Post 20844079)
There are places to talk about FlyerTalk's policies...this just isn't it.
That's a rhetorical question, there aren't any places, right? Because Flyertalk censors comments. So be it, we don't have to like it, and we can still criticize bloggers for the same thing. But it is hypocritical. It's hypocritical of Flyertalk to host a forum for bashing blogs [let's face it, that's what it is.. except that it's also a forum for bashing the other 'external resources' like TOBB too] when Flyertalk suffers from the same defects we bash these blogs for. Internet Brands owns the original credit card affiliate link pimping blog. Flyertalk censors comments. Internet Brands produced embarassingly bad travel articles meant to spoonfeed the masses for clicks and views. It's also hypocritical of folks frequenting this forum to criticize blogs and not Flyertalk for these failings. And I should say, I *do* criticize blogs for them. This isn't meant as a defense of bad practices. It's a defense of rigorously applying our critiques (or shutting up). ;) |
Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20844302)
Pray tell what are the places where we can talk about 'which Flyertalk forums censor comments?'
That's a rhetorical question, there aren't any places, right? Because Flyertalk censors comments. So be it, we don't have to like it, and we can still criticize bloggers for the same thing. But it is hypocritical. It's hypocritical of Flyertalk to host a forum for bashing blogs [let's face it, that's what it is.. except that it's also a forum for bashing the other 'external resources' like TOBB too] when Flyertalk suffers from the same defects we bash these blogs for. Internet Brands owns the original credit card affiliate link pimping blog. Flyertalk censors comments. Internet Brands produced embarassingly bad travel articles meant to spoonfeed the masses for clicks and views. It's also hypocritical of folks frequenting this forum to criticize blogs and not Flyertalk for these failings. And I should say, I *do* criticize blogs for them. This isn't meant as a defense of bad practices. It's a defense of rigorously applying our critiques (or shutting up). ;) |
I get the biggest kick out of the "original credit card pimping blog" comment. When I was the only one is the credit card space, (started in 2009 with links) I was everyone's fan favorite. Things were still good when TPG got in the game with links in April 2011, but when the BA masses joined the fray in October 2011, how that has changed now that there are 42 "credit card pimping blogs"
It's called "over saturation". Plain and Simple |
Originally Posted by Frugal Travel Guy
(Post 20844493)
I get the biggest kick out of the "original credit card pimping blog" comment. When I was the only one is the credit card space, (started in 2009 with links) I was everyone's fan favorite.
http://www.abestweb.com/forums/intro...lo-124317.html And so it began. |
wow thank you
Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20844550)
A little blast from the past, courtesy of a commenter on gpapadop's blog
http://www.abestweb.com/forums/intro...lo-124317.html And so it began. thanks for posting that link. Rick |
Originally Posted by FlyFasterFlyFarther
(Post 20844550)
A little blast from the past, courtesy of a commenter on gpapadop's blog
http://www.abestweb.com/forums/intro...lo-124317.html And so it began. Income has been a nice sideline to my blog and greatly appreciated, but now that I found you, maybe I can pick up a few tricks to increase the bottom line. |
Originally Posted by the hotel bar
(Post 20829539)
As is usually the case with CC links, integrity can be bought
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Originally Posted by hotelmotel
(Post 20846890)
And ain't that what it's all been about ever since! Thanks for digging that up, FFFF.
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Originally Posted by farwest101
(Post 20847919)
No, integrity can't be bought. All that happens when some money is dangled in front of your nose is that it exposes the scumbags from the rest;)
People are getting a little ahead of themselves with the high and might moral code here. The only Scumbags I have met recently are working for non-profits, now that is a different situation altogether. |
Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20848178)
I don't think for profit people are scumbags. The deal with these blogs is that they exchange information for money. The money aspect is optional, without paid subscribers. IF the post is too helpful it might not garner money, if it is too biased towards just making money it may not be too helpful to those with knowledge. Its a balancing act.
People are getting a little ahead of themselves with the high and might moral code here. The only Scumbags I have met recently are working for non-profits, now that is a different situation altogether. And now you've got guys like MMS who cultivated an aura of respectability being caught with their hand in the cookie jar - with the response to being caught is simply to not admit anything - and then start censoring his comments because he's too embarrassed/too lame to admit he's passing off other's work as his own. That tells you what sort of "integrity" the guy has - zero. I'm sure in everyday life the guy is a sweet guy, but he's obviously whored himself for the sake of easy $. And I agree with you on the Nonprofit guys. Con artists, er "public spirited individuals" have found how lucrative it is to be "non profit". |
Originally Posted by farwest101
(Post 20849155)
Not saying for profit guys are scumbags, just those who whore themselves for the almighty $. And in the blogosphere, that's the majority. Just how many guys can regurgitate the same info time and again ("these are the 10 best cards to have" "which cards are best to use on Bluebird?" "if you get X card with XX,XXX sign up bonus, you can fly to the MOON for FREE!!!").
And now you've got guys like MMS who cultivated an aura of respectability being caught with their hand in the cookie jar - with the response to being caught is simply to not admit anything - and then start censoring his comments because he's too embarrassed/too lame to admit he's passing off other's work as his own. That tells you what sort of "integrity" the guy has - zero. I'm sure in everyday life the guy is a sweet guy, but he's obviously whored himself for the sake of easy $. And I agree with you on the Nonprofit guys. Con artists, er "public spirited individuals" have found how lucrative it is to be "non profit". |
Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20848178)
IF the post is too helpful it might not garner money, if it is too biased towards just making money it may not be too helpful to those with knowledge. Its a balancing act.
Some blogs do not aim to educate readers and give them the BEST offer out there. You know, DO NO HARM. It should not be a balancing act. Unless you are in it for a quick buck. Dangit I forgot how to do them multiple quotes again...Oliver,help! |
Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20849344)
Fair point, but lets get real, 99% of the population whores itself out for the mighty dollar - the rest are dead.
Getting back on topic: I apologize to the person who left a comment in my blog and I deleted because it went poof when I deleted the spam comment right above it. Where are the trolls to accuse me of censoring comments now!:D |
Originally Posted by gpapadop
(Post 20850107)
I disagree with this. I think you must work in Wall Street?:D
Getting back on topic: I apologize to the person who left a comment in my blog and I deleted because it went poof when I deleted the spam comment right above it. Where are the trolls to accuse me of censoring comments now!:D |
Originally Posted by gpapadop
(Post 20850095)
Bold font for emphasis and Underlined for even more emphasis.
Some blogs do not aim to educate readers and give them the BEST offer out there. You know, DO NO HARM. It should not be a balancing act. Unless you are in it for a quick buck. Dangit I forgot how to do them multiple quotes again...Oliver,help! Are you in it George for the quick buck? preying on those seeking financial services who don't check online for a better price? We don't even charge our readers George. What gives George? You should be giving your advice for free like we do. The practice of using the words '"pimping and whoring" should not be part of a miles and points conversation. |
Originally Posted by brooklynmatt
(Post 20851513)
Anyone who sells an hour of their time for a buck (or more) is whoring themselves out for the mighty dollar. Anyone with a job, no matter how much you like it - until you are financially independent and no longer need to work to pay for your bills. That's the majority of people.
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Originally Posted by Frugal Travel Guy
(Post 20851721)
But George, my Google search of Financial planners in Ann Arbor (when u started Tabloid Blogger Buzz) indicates you charge more per hour than some of the other Financial Planners?... Do No Harm George. Why aren't you disclosing this information on your website? Why are you charging more than others for similar services? Are you guaranteeing better results than the other guy? Are you the best affiliate link? Do you disclose this to your clients at your first meeting?
Are you in it George for the quick buck? preying on those seeking financial services who don't check online for a better price? We don't even charge our readers George. What gives George? You should be giving your advice for free like we do. The practice of using the words '"pimping and whoring" should not be part of a miles and points conversation. TBB does not censor. Hey moderator: This post is on topic:-) Do moderators delete posts of FTers who are affiliated with IB,huh? Let's see... |
Originally Posted by Frugal Travel Guy
(Post 20851721)
The practice of using the words '"pimping and whoring" should not be part of a miles and points conversation.
Using the analogy of financial advisers: there are are those who act as excellent fiduciaries by giving the best possible advice to their clients. Then there are others who give financial advice that earns THEM the most spiff whether it is the best advice for the client or not. The former is a great financial adviser. The latter is a pimp/whore. |
Originally Posted by gpapadop
(Post 20852088)
You sound quite angry amigo. I will let other readers make up their minds.
TBB does not censor. Hey moderator: This post is on topic:-) Do moderators delete posts of FTers who are affiliated with IB,huh? Let's see... However, this the last warning to the both of you: please take this offline and sort it out. As entertaining as it may be I will delete any future personal attacks from either end on FT. Regards Oliver2002 Mod EM&PR forum |
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