one of the problems with bots, is they target the more popular forum types (i think). and the busier a forum gets, the more publicised it gets, the easier it is for the bots to find it.
vbulletin are making constant changes and upgrades to their software in order to correct this. unfortunately, alot of these bots are actually people sitting at a pc getting paid per post they make. so they arer able to bypass alot of tyhe security measures in place, because theyre thinking actual people. the bots are different, in that theyre computerised scripts, and are blocked when a decission has to be made (such as the question precaution, or the more complex image verification.)
its a shame, but the odd spammer will make it through, and post. we're doing all we can though to stop this
regarding the forum network. i personally think its a great thing. it enables forum users to find the types of information easily, that they might not normally. a bit like an information mall. in that respect, i think long term, it will be great for TWV, and bring more people here to contribute to the forum.