Ping Tree / Ping Post software is used for lead generators to sell contact information to scammers. The leads are sold individually or as lists. The Ping Post is listed and users (typically scammers) are able to bid on the post based on the demographics and general information that is given. The highest bidder gets the detailed contact information for each lead. This is known as a lead auction. Leads can go from $1-$100 each.
I have written extensively on lead generator sources, which include legit companies like Ticketmaster and Bass Pro Shops. Any sort of reward program or trade show vendor can sell your info to a third party. Once the info is in the market place, it gets bought and sold... possibly forever. If the info is attached to your real name, changing your phone number will not help.
My questions are: how do lead generators coordinate distribution and maintain exclusivity of lead lists? Do ping tree software providers know and have a responsibility to report the activities of their users?
Popular Ping Tree Software providers are:
VanillaSoft
Boberdoo
Ping Tree Systems
Has anyone been on these market places? Can you share more information on this topic?
Next time you talk to a scammer ask them about ping trees or ping posts. See what they say, do they claim ignorance or get pissed off?