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What Is Image Verification?

We’ve introduced image verification to try to reduce the number of accounts created by automated computer scripts — called "bots"
— usually written to generate spam. Computer programs can’t read the distorted text as well as humans can, so bots usually can’t create accounts by themselves on sites protected by image verification. By taking a few seconds to complete the image verification, you’ll help keep spam out of the article comments and forums across The Chronicle’s site.

Instructions

· Simply enter the words you see in the box, in order and separated by a space.

· If you are not sure what the words are, either enter your best guess or click the reload button next to the distorted words.

· Visually impaired users can click the audio button to hear a set of words that can be entered instead of the visual challenge.

· Still need help? See our Help page or contact us by e-mail.