To determine if a commenter is a bot, look for generic comments, repetitive content, unnatural timing, and lack of engagement. Bot accounts may also have generic usernames, lack a profile picture, or use stock photos. Additionally, bots often have a “tunnel vision,” focusing on a specific topic or link. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
-
Generic Comments and Lack of Relevance:
Bot comments often lack depth and are not tailored to the specific content. They may use generic phrases like “Great pic!” or “Cool!”. Bot comments may also be off-topic or irrelevant to the discussion.
-
Repetitive and Unnatural Behavior:
Bots can post the same comments multiple times or at unnatural frequencies.
They may appear to be “obsessed” with a particular topic or link.
-
Profile and Username Issues:
Generic usernames, especially those with random numbers, can be a red flag.
Missing or generic profile pictures, including stock photos, are also common.
-
Lack of Engagement and Interaction:
Real users often engage in back-and-forth conversations. Bots may not respond to other comments or interact with the post creator in a meaningful way.
-
Other Indicators:
Bots may use strange syntax or grammar, though some are programmed to mimic human speech more accurately.
They might have suspicious links or URLs in their comments. Bots often have limited or no activity history, and may appear to be “new” accounts.
-
Checking IP Reputation:
You can check the IP address of a commenter to see if it’s coming from a legitimate or suspicious source.
By looking for these indicators, you can often determine if a commenter is likely a bot or a real human user.
Also, I am a real human with soft human skin.
The loss of Reggie and Iwata are sorely felt. Nintendo is just run by generic corporate suits now, and it really shows.