Astroturfing (fake grass roots) seems to be over abundant at the...

Astroturfing (fake grass roots) seems to be over abundant at the moment on the PLS threads.

"Identifying and Avoiding Astroturfing on Sharemarket Forums"

Hey fellow investors,I wanted to share some insights on a crucial aspect of our online discussions – paid astroturfing. Astroturfing is when paid individuals or entities create deceptive content to manipulate opinions, often for their own gain.

Here are a few tips to help us stay vigilant:
1. **Unusual Enthusiasm or Pessimism:** Be wary of extreme opinions that seem overly positive or negative. Genuine discussions usually involve a range of perspectives.
2. **Limited Account History:** Check the user's account history. If it's relatively new or has minimal activity, approach their posts with caution. Astroturfers often create fresh accounts to avoid detection.
3. **Repeated Phrasing:** Astroturfers may reuse phrases or talking points to drive a particular narrative. Keep an eye out for suspiciously consistent language across different threads.
4. **Overemphasis on Specific Stocks:** Astroturfing often targets specific stocks to create a buzz. Question posts that excessively promote or criticise a single stock without substantial reasoning.
5. **Lack of Diversification:** Legitimate investors usually diversify their portfolios. Beware of users who excessively focus on a single investment without discussing a broader strategy.

Remember, our community thrives on genuine, diverse discussions. By being aware of these red flags, we can collectively foster a more informed and resilient forum environment.Happy investing, and let's keep our discussions transparent and valuable!
Disclaimer: This post aims to promote awareness and does not accuse any specific user or entity without evidence. Always conduct due diligence before making financial decisions.