yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Introductions] ze7zez:
So all others should be closed, I think.
[Introductions] KidCarter93:
The best thing to do if you come across new threads like that is to report them and ask them to be moved into either of the above threads including a link to it.

Some mods will simply close, others will close with a link to either/or both of them but I don't think that will generally encourage the poster to go to those threads afterwards. At least if the thread has the post moved it means that they can still receive the answer they're looking for.

Going back and closing or merging all the others is pointless at this stage though
[Introductions] webscaledevnull:
Why on earth is the forum search function hidden to logged out/unregistered users?

Besides just being needlessly hostile to users, every single forum I've ever used has some kind of "search for an answer before you post" rule. It's wild that searching would be actively discouraged in this way on a forum.

Is it some kind of play to stimulate registration or post numbers? What do those economics look like? Does XDA's parent company even care about those figures? Bizarre stuff.
[Introductions] IronTechmonkey:
Good question. I did not realize it was search was hidden when not logged in but indeed that seems to be the case. I don't k now if that is from monetary motive, but from a community building point of view it seem reasonable to require that someone must be logged in in order to search for content shared by others who had to be logged in to share said content. Also, such a requirement avoids hit and run access to community provided information with no other participation, and might also minimize redistribution of the gathered information elsewhere. Disclaimer: these are just guesses about why it might be this way, and there is no implied criticism.
[Introductions] Ultramanoid:
On the note of deleting accounts.

I understand the need to pay for things. But this seems excessive. People who interact with me in here know well my opinions about this sort of thing, and I've been thinking about a post like this for years now. XDA is a very rare exception in my internet use, but eventually I'll just stay away.
[Introductions] Ultramanoid:
I forgot to add, on top of the massive scale tracking and malvertising practices, it is fairly annoying to have to cycle through several Tor nodes until finding one that isn't blocked by XDA. This is just a minor complaint.

The former remains the biggest, fundamental problem anyway. This IS a very hostile and dangerous web towards anyone visiting. And at the risk of being accused of comparing apples to oranges, I'll point out that there ARE tech-oriented sites handling large numbers of users, data, and traffic, without any tracking or malvertising whatsoever, zero : Hacker News, Lobste.rs, heck, any Fediverse instance / application .. Not that XDA has to go that far to the other extreme.
[Introductions] Dayuser:
It would be better if there is no any post signatures here.

After most forums removed tapatalk plugin few years ago and that stupid tapatalk signature... now we have another signature here. I think these are really not necessary to keep here.

No i'm not taking about profile signatures. I mean these "Sent from *device name* using *app name* " signatures.
[Introductions] KidCarter93:
I wouldn't have thought that there's anything XDA can really do about that, unfortunately. In regards to mentioning Tapatalk, at least the number of members posting with the mobile signature has dramatically decreased for you since it can no longer be used to view these forums.

The availability of them is purely down to the app creators at this point so they'd be the only ones who could remove them. Whether they would remove them would be another thing though as it's certainly just personal preference and, as far as I can remember, I've only seen the mobile signatures brought up a handful of times over the years, compared to the many issues and complaints with regular signatures
[Introductions] mvikrant97:
A letter to the admin team over XDA,

@willverduzco @Oswald Boelcke @V0latyle @khusika @MikeChannon @Badger50 @svetius

Every now and then a lot of spam posts are made in XDA forums. Admins do a commendable job to remove those spam posts after a user reports them or they do it when they notice it but the problem is in the registeration page is what I believe. I also feel that admins and moderators can focus on actual forum moderation rather than removing spam post on the forum, seems like their time and energy is wasted in this unnecessary mess created by the spammer.

From what I have noticed is that people don't necessarily need to have a popular email user account from Gmail, outlook, Yahoo but they can even use any random temporary email services from many of the available websites online and can simply use it to registed over XDA.

An example of how easily once can create an account on XDA and then make spam posts. I don't intend to endorse spamming or harm XDA in anyway and I'm just sharing the loophole that allows someone to simply create user account on XDA, it may be because XDA wants a simple onboarding of user on its forums but times have changed now and XDA needs to improve on how user creates an account on the forum and exploits its vulnerabilities to spam other users creating an unwelcoming experience to other users on the forum.

I hope admins will look into this and would raise it to higher authorities in charge to implement changes to the registeration page so that only genuine email and domains are used to avoid spamming.

An example of a SPAM post on XDA.

Also please note the username of the person who created this post @backlinkdot117 and it totally seems to be created with malicious intent. This is not the only spam post on the forum but spamming is spread all across the forum.

Thank you.
[Introductions] Dayuser:
I don't know does this new app has settings for signature but tapatalk has setting to show or not show signatures in posts.
[Introductions] V0latyle:
@mvikrant97 Who dares mention my name with such impunity?!

There are a couple of problems with this idea: I don't think we'd want to force people to use specific email services, and it wouldn't do much to stop spam as they can just create new email addresses on those services anyway.

Spam has been around about as long as forums have, and it's really hard to prevent without causing problems for legitimate users.

I don't know what tools we have at our disposal, only the site admins like @MikeChannon @the_scotsman and @willverduzco do.

I wonder if it would be possible to require code verification à la 2FA for account creation? When an account is registered, an email is sent to the address with a verification link. If we required a one time code to be used with email verification, that might help cut down on some of the bots.
[Introductions] MikeChannon:
Well it's good to get suggestions.

It's interesting though, that the majority of recent spammers have not been using temporary / throw away email addresses. Gmail is frequently listed as the spammers email and Gmail addresses in a sense are just as easy to use and dispose of at will.

In practice it would be very difficult for us to say that in addition to registering at XDA you must also have an email address on our pre-approved list. Even if we did, a determined spammer will still go ahead and use a mainstream email. Keep in mind that much if not most spam is created by spam bots that relentlessly automate their processes to get around ANY block we might put in place. Quite often they will use dark web hacked Gmail accounts to post using genuine XDA user accounts.

I regret to say that large forum sites like ours will always be a target for spammers looking for a large membership to whom to show their spam.

Our Moderators will always have to deal with this problem though we do rely on our Members to click the Report button to keep our Mods informed about the posts of spammers.

Mike
[Introductions] mvikrant97:
I don't want XDA forums to favour specific email providers but to find a way to curb the spamming.

I have got my answer. :giggle:
[Introductions] KidCarter93:
The official xda app with the domain fix and the unofficial app (both by dr.ketan) don't have the option for mobile signatures. Whereas ReLabs app by theimpulson must do as I've seen it from some members, but haven't used that app myself to see if it can be disabled
[Introductions] sd_shadow:
Disable view of member Signatures
[Introductions] Renate:
On the register question: Many? some? folks here have their own domain. When registering for some other things I'm often pestered, "Surely you don't mean user@domain.com, but user@gmail.com?

I think some signatures get out of hand. I wouldn't mind getting rid of them entirely if there was a website link on the hover over photo.
[Introductions] Dayuser:
Read my post again. Not talking about that, and also already have regular signatures off.
[Introductions] Renate:
Could we get more intelligent line-breaking of user names in the little side box?

Break on camel-case, leave no orphans?

Edit: Ok, I see that the line breaking is just in the browser.

Edit^2: You can use either a &shy; (if you want it to show a hyphen) or else &#8203; for a zero-width space.

The placement could be decided automagically or specified by the user?

Edit^3: Maybe we can lend this user another "C"?

Edit^4: Since you're using UTF-8 already you can just insert \xe2 \x80 \x8b (zero-width space) in the "print string" for the user.
[Introductions] Birkneo:
Subject: Concerns Regarding Forum Closure Practices

The practice of closing older forum threads, even on highly technical topics, has the potential to stifle knowledge-sharing and hinder future innovation.

For example, consider the closed thread on:

https://xdaforums.com/t/closed-nord-n30-5g-cph2513-root-guide-closed.4612143/.

The potential exists for significant developments in device modification or software breakthroughs to occur years after the thread's closure. Unfortunately, the current practice makes it impossible for valuable discoveries and updates to be directly associated with the relevant historical information.

I propose that forums explore alternative strategies to manage older/closed threads. These could include: Periodic review: A review process by moderators or designated community members to assess if threads warrant reopening based on renewed interest or relevance. Archiving with limited commenting: Archiving older threads while still allowing focused, solution-oriented comments instead of a complete closure.

Clear designation for outdated information: Prominent labeling of older/closed threads to signal that the information might be outdated, while still allowing for updates and potential breakthroughs to be shared.

By maintaining the ability for communities to contribute to older forums, we preserve valuable knowledge bases and create conditions for continued innovation and problem-solving.

--Birkneo (aka 6idie)
[Introductions] Justadudeinspace:
This has probably been mentioned by now, but I would suggest a more updated and broader device list (database)-even though a lot of content is transferable between devices. Bring in phones that are more rare for users (lower amount of users), or more phones presented as the poor man's choice (lower amount of users as well). However, creating a larger device database would give new possibilities for specific devices that people may still search for-even though the device may not be as popular with most users. Also, I would create device specific forum channels a little quicker to the initial drop to the public.

Just my suggestion...

Sent from Pixel 8 Pro using ReLabs
[Introductions] KidCarter93:
As you can see in the thread you linked to, it was closed at the request of the OP. This is standard practice as the member was the one who opened the thread so is certainly their choice if they no longer wish to provide support/maintain etc.

We don't go around pro-actively closing older threads. In fact, there has been many situations where other members (other members, not the OP) have reported older threads asking for them to be closed due to inactivity and we keep them open so that discussion can carry on, even if it's a number of years later.

As a potential option for you, if you see a thread which has been closed which you'd like to carry on yourself, you could easily create a new thread and link to the previous one and state that it's a continuation

The issue with this would be the lack of usage of a whole array of new forums if a bunch were to be added for less popular devices. It adds more for the server side to deal with and also a hell of a lot more for the moderation team to maintain as, even if we added 20 quiet device forums, we'd still have to add those to our checks to ensure that everything is all good.

As you might already know, we do have a couple of forums which are tailor made for these sort of devices - those which don't have a dedicated forum here.

Android General

Android root tutorials, one-click root tools, ROMs and other Android modifications can be found in this forum for devices without a dedicated device forum

xdaforums.com

General Topics

This is a forum for discussion, guides, accessories etc., relating to phones generally or for which we do not have a dedicated phone / device forum. As such this is not a general Question and Answer forum. If you have general questions or questions about devices for which we don't have a...

xdaforums.com
[Introductions] Justadudeinspace:
Indeed, I guess I was primarily focused on enhancing the individual user experience. I had not considered the server load and their limitations. I can see how this idea could become en-cumbersome.
[Introductions] KidCarter93:
We want to enhance the user experience aswell which is why we're always happy to receive suggestions/feedback.

Even if you take a look through the requests to mods & admins thread, it may look, initially, that all requests are shot down right away but it's just awkward. We, of course, are always looking to improve where we can but, unfortunately, a lot of changes are as feasible on a site of this size. Even the ones which are are gonna take a fair bit of discussion and implementation to work
[Introductions] Justadudeinspace:
This beast (XDA Forum) is continually growing and shifting. It's understandable that there are a lot of moving parts, many unseen that need careful consideration. Thank you for hearing me out, and enlightening me to the complications to implement such an idea.

Sent from Pixel 8 Pro using ReLabs
[Introductions] Oswald Boelcke:
We currently have about 3.5+ million threads with 75+ million posts and about 11+ million accounts i.e. the last number doesn't include the guest here, those who don't register and cannot post but who are reading etc.
[Introductions] Justadudeinspace:
I see your point. My idea would only add to a growing issue of server limitations. I honestly didn't realize the numbers were already so high, and I imagine there's already an issue with dead or pointless threads. Which is why you guys maintain importance on not being wasteful when posting new threads. For example, duplicating common information that's easily transferable between devices. I was honestly just trying to think of a way to reach newer less aware users to the basics. I remember in my learning curve, it was like I was thrown into the deep end with an unpopular device, and everyone was yelling sink or swim. I really didn't know where to begin except with a single word, Root. So I went through the process of learning, but it wasn't until much later that I realized all the information that I needed was readily available, just not for my unpopular device. Naturally, I was considering a way to bridge the gap, but I guess there is no perfect solution.

Sent from DE2117 using ReLabs
[Introductions] Renate:
2FA is not a bad idea and it probably should be encouraged.

OTOH, for some of the members here who can reckon their ages in the hundreds of months, a month is not a long time for the 2FA login to stay valid.

Because of the inconvenience disabling 2FA might be tempting.

Could we at least have a longer option too, maybe 90 days?
[Introductions] Birkneo:
i took your advice and did that, and the op reported my thread to an admin to have his link removed, basically obscuring access to all the valuable information held on the thread. so like, what am i supposed to do? screenshot the op's forum and post the pictures on mine? or like ???? idk im so confused rn.
[Introductions] IsHacker:
Greetings to the mods team,

@willverduzco @Oswald Boelcke @V0latyle @khusika @MikeChannon @Badger50 @svetius

I am here to request an auto-banning feature.

These days I have seen a major new kind of spam, which I personally call the "Matchnow Dating Spam", has been appearing all over the forum (not only XDA, but all other major electronic device forums such as GSM-Forum, Win-Raid forums, Bios-mods forums, etc!). These spam messages are appearing almost on all posts/threads which are newly being made by users.

Even a few minutes ago I liked a post in a thread which I replied to got two of these spam messages at once!

So, I request a feature, which if a post made by a user contains the word "dating" or a link that leads to "matchnow.life", should be banned instantly.

Such an auto-ban feature would not only reduce a major amount of spam and reduce the work of the mods, but also make XDA better, as the other forums I mentioned above will not have implemented such a feature.

This may not be helpful for all kinds of spam messages, but it will still be helpful for the so called "Matchnow Dating Spam" messages, which is a major spam.

Thank you.

Regards,

IsHacker
[Introductions] Oswald Boelcke:
Thanks for the suggestion. You might not have noticed it but we're very heavily dealing with these things. Already a few weeks ago we had a "dating and matchnow" campaign that again commenced about two days ago.

Also, what you can't see is that many, really many are already caught by the filter that is already set up. However, a few circumvent the filter but we analyse why and how and in turn fine-tune the filter.

By the way, all this type of spam is done via obviously hacked or hijacked accounts that we handle too. My serious request to you is to promote 2FA login everywhere.

All users: Please enable the 2 Factor Authentication!

Due to recent events, we suggest that everybody enables the 2 Factor Authetication (2FA) (aka Two-step Verification) in your accounts. Details how to do and where to find it are available in our RC @sd_shadow's great guide...

xdaforums.com

Regards

Oswald Boelcke
[Introductions] IsHacker:
I have already enabled 2FA on my own account and will try to convince others to do so.

Thanks, again.
[Introductions] ZG_DEV:
What if XDA made a TikTok Account ? This will be a great place to post short videos and guides ! Most of TikTok users like Tech videos and things related to root. XDA account may also suggest(Recommend) great and magisk modules and projects on XDA too !

Hope you review this request and approve it, thanks !
[Introductions] willverduzco:
We actually already have a TikTok Account, run by our talented video producer Alex Dobie: https://www.tiktok.com/@xdadevelopers

He also runs our YouTube channel, which also deserves a follow: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk1SpWNzOs4MYmr0uICEntg
[Introductions] ZG_DEV:
Great !

Does he also suggest and recommend magisk modules or mods or projects made on XDA ?
[Introductions] willverduzco:
Alex occasionally covers rooting-related content, but in order to broaden his reach most of his content isn't explicitly development work from the Forums.

I believe he recently took a look at the HTC One M8 and installed a modern version of Android on it.
[Introductions] ZG_DEV:
Ok :)

Also, is there is a way to communicate with him ?
[Introductions] ZG_DEV:
Well, this is what we are trying to prevent, spammers. 😂
[Introductions] Spannaa:
Why not just use the report button?
[Introductions] TNSMANI:
He already has.
[Introductions] giddycadet:
The search bar is not visible unless you are logged in. I can't think of any legitimate reason such a decision would be made.
[Introductions] Oswald Boelcke:
It's a private website. Doesn't it just depend to the owner's decision unless laws are violated?
[Introductions] giddycadet:
what do you mean "private website"? like yeah it's owned by a company, but it's not a closed community, it's an open forum meant to be used by a large number of people. Every other forum I've ever seen has let you search posts without logging in. And the owner can of course do whatever they want, I just think this decision makes the website worse.
[Introductions] blackhawk:
The feature was probably abused or was done to protect from it. I doubt the decision was arbitrary.

Regardless after viewing this site for over a decade I never even noticed that or cared. I still use mostly Gookill to do searches on this site🤣
[Introductions] ze7zez:
What is Gookill? :unsure:
[Introductions] sd_shadow:
Why Google Sucks

Exhibit 1, the vast Gookill graveyard of Google children aborted by Google. A bad used car salesman last longer then most Google apps and are more trustworthy.🤣

xdaforums.com
[Introductions] giddycadet:
if i'm honest, you're not the sort of person whose opinion I would care about on this issue, as it doesn't affect anyone who's logged in much less anyone who has probably BEEN logged in for a decade. Sort of like how I wouldn't expect an iphone user to care about how you can't update airpods firmware from an android. Fair enough if it was done to prevent abuse though - although I have to confess I can't imagine how such abuse would actually occur
[Introductions] blackhawk:
Do your homework. Did you comprehend my previous post? I've been a member for 4 years.

To be frank I think your meowing about something pretty inconsequential...
[Introductions] ProfessorM_:
I guess it is because to many bot's trying to scrape things from this forum ;)
[Introductions] blackhawk:
They still do anyway, the web crawlers are quit busy. XDA doesn't try to block them... making Google searches of the XDA fairly useful.
[Introductions] giddycadet:
Fair enough, I did in fact not check your join date.

> To be frank I think your meowing about something pretty inconsequential...

I mean yeah, if you don't use the search bar on the site of course you're not going to care if it lives or dies. and it's not really for me that i care (obviously i have an account now and can see the search bar) but for anyone who's trying to search for a solution in five minutes and doesn;t want to have to make an account on every website ever. like me a few weeks ago
[Introductions] blackhawk:
The search feature has never been particularly useful for me. If this site really appeals to someone eventually they will join. Back in the 2000's XDA was more a curiosity to me as I didn't have my first Android fueled device until 2010.

Regardless for many years it was and still is Google searches I use to search this site most times. That's how I learned of XDA's existence in the first place, searching with Gookill.
[Introductions] sd_shadow:
XDA No Advertisement Subscription​

I don't think there's been a request for this, since the change in XDA Ownership.

I believe there many members that would subscribe to a Paid XDA ad-Free experience, if it was available. Including some members that currently are not seeing ads for various reasons.
[Introductions] blackhawk:
There are better, more respectful ways to advertise. Get sponsors that have quality products that members want. Don't shotgun ads everywhere. I'm intolerant of ads to put it mildly.

Paid? I'm pretty cheap by necessity... and it would open a new can of worms.

It's a thorny meatball anyway you slice it. Be far better if XDA was a nonprofit corporation... however I know little of its corporate structure.

Maybe this as it is now is as good as it gets.

If it works don't fix it!!!
[Introductions] KamDaTechDude:
add support for more devices n mayb a lil more modern ui