I need your support

Post by **Soner** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 1:30 pm

We are constantly battling against hackers although not being able to take the forum down they are taking my other sites down. The forum has been heavily protected which costs quite a lot, and fighting hackers by not following their demands to take the forum down is costing me a small fortune to get other sites (approx. 80 ) up and running after being hacked - it is not financially feasible to heavily protect all these sites.

All I ask is that businesses and those that sell on the forum to support Kibkom by either advertising, buying stickies or globals, or donating when they have sold their items on the Sales page.

Any business advertising on the forum without buying a sticky will have their post moved to the free advertising pages: either the Verified or Unverified Businesses page. You are using Kibkom to generate business, it is only fair that you pay something towards it if placing your ad on a prominent page.

As for advertising banners, we are getting over 6 Million hits a year, and to cost of a banner ad per year would be equivalent to what you would pay other media companies for just one day or one week. We are open with what out distribution is, do other companies you advertise with disclose their true readership? Ask for proof, if you ask me I will happily supply you with full stats for the Kibkom forum.

Thanks for your understanding and support.

Post by **Soner** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 1:55 pm

Oh, and most importantly, I ask kibkom members to support those businesses that are supporting Kibkom.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 5:26 pm

Soner, I live here on a permanent basis and use this forum for all manner of things - information gathering, trying to be helpful to others, up to date news, sales and wants, etc, etc. I wish to make a small donation on an annual basis to keep this site open and assist you in what I know to be an expensive and arduous task. I am not one of the may rich and famous who live here and my wife and I exist on our pensions with no lump sum in the bank but I do note that this forum has 4,776 members who I expect could each donate 10TL a year to the cause!!!!

Give us all more information please on how to donate an lets see what happens - if we leave it all up to the generosity of businesses to support you then we will loose you rapidly!

I will not retreat to my bunker when the moans start to come my way - I will fight back, if you use a service then expect to pay for it, even if it is a token payment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Keithcaley · Post by **Keithcaley** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 6:00 pm

One for Soner...

Is there an optimum value to the size of a donation / contribution?

I made a very small donation when I sold an item for 'not much' money, and remember being concerned at the time that Bank / Paypal charges might mean that I had actually incurred a loss for the forum by doing it...

If that is the case, could it worth investigating whether there might any way of 'consolidating' small donations before they are processed by Paypal/Bank/Card Co.?

Other than that, I'm with Waddo all the way!

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 6:13 pm

OK here goes.

Maybe now is the time .....bearing in mind that the forum is a good few years old to introduce a levy for each item advertised for sale in the general sales section......say 5 - 10TL. For all vehicles say 50TL.

No idea how this could work or even implemented..........is it possible that in the for sale sections you cannot post until donation made? Of course it could all be too difficult or complicated and possibly be a nightmare to moderate or control.

Alternatively a donation of 5 - 10TL from all members and new members joining? Again maybe to difficult.

So perphaps appealing to the goodwill of everyone is possibly the best way.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 6:16 pm

Can you move this to the "Announcements" section please - I would hate for it to be lost in the depths of another conversation on why Turkish Coffee costs so much these days!!!!!!!!!!!!

turtle · Post by **turtle** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 7:30 pm

I am more than happy to make a donation to the upkeep of the forum..

I suppose paypal would be the best way ?

Post by **Soner** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 7:35 pm

Thank you all, I am not asking for donations ( ie charity ), and thank you to that person that did make a donation today, but, what I am saying is that many members over the years have sold on the forum ( some many times and many items ) but the percentage that donate anything towards the sale of their items probably equates to something like 1% - if even that. All I ask is if you do sell something on the forum then do please use the donation link http://www.kibkom.com/pay.php , even if it is one payment after 10 sales. And also, if you are a company that drums up business by creating threads to advertise, then do consider using the Stickies or Globals http://www.kibkom.com/ad.php - they do work and several companies are starting to use them on a regular basis as they have proven to increase sales. One company made approx 350tl on a thread in just a couple of days - now buying a sticky would have cost them just 28TL (£7) for a week and they probably would have made 3 times as much by doing so.

I so appreciate that some companies are advertising with us by purchasing yearly banners, thanks to these companies it has taken some of the burden off me, but we need more companies to advertise on Kibkom and we need members to support these companies by either using their services or at least getting a quote from them - so basically think before you decide which company you use - there are many banners on the forum with companies offering different services, if you need one of their services then please contact them before contacting another company that does not advertise on Kibkom. This will one - encourage them to continue advertising in future and two - you get what you want and at the same time help the upkeep of the forum.

So in a nutshell - I really do not want charity, I just want members and businesses that enjoy using the forum to be a little more aware that the forum does not run on thin air. I have contributed over the last few years by giving to Charities even though I had been making a loss. I will still donate to charities but now really need to ensure I can cover costs of running this forum. No thanks to the hacker / hackers, they have made me waste money that would have been given to charities - shame on them.

rocking · Post by **rocking** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 7:50 pm

Do not look at it as charity. You provide the service and I use it so why not donate. Agree with Waddo. Just let us know, if they do not wish to donate so be it, but I know many would. Thank you Soner.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 9:07 pm

And think of it as a war chest against the Hackers as well.

Toftsv · Post by **Toftsv** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 9:24 pm

I think a small contribution ( me included ) is a small price to pay for service and efforts from Soner and mods.

Great idea and I will do so.

Peter.

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Mon 20 Jul 2015 9:42 pm

Wow. Reading this, I think you are a terrific bunch. I know of the huge headaches (ongoing) that Soner has had and the matching expense to deal with these hackers . Just wish he could find who they are and get them destroyed before they try to destroy many others. So, to read of your generosity of spirit, heart andpocket, is a huge encouragement to me, and to realize just how much the forum means to people.

Haven't spoken to Soner tonight, but I am sure he is feeling relieved. He told me he did not want charity, and I tried to encourage him to see it as support rather than charity, so I am doubly pleased to see there are others hwo feel the same.

From me, a huge thank you for supporting Soner, as such encouragement will help him to keep on fighting against the nasty people, and to keep the forum running.

Do you remember when Izzet Cyprus 44 had a similar problem?

Thanks again for proving that KibKom is a family for Soner to be proud of.

Gumbo · Post by **Gumbo** » Tue 21 Jul 2015 5:56 am

Totally agree with all the above comments. Happy to donate in the fight against hackers. The time and effort it must take to keep Kibkom safe, clean and helpful must be immense. I am sure all the friends and users of Kibkom would be more than happy to show their support, just need guidance on the most beneficial and profitable way of ensuring the maximum amount given gets to Soner. I for one - and I am sure many others would be so very sad to see this site go the same way as C44. Good luck Soner and let those that this site has helped show how much they appreciate your commitment to the Kibkom family. From me, a personal thanks, have never sold anything, have bought one thing, but have used this site every day at some time to find all sorts of information - even where you can get the cheapest baked beans !!!!! X

foodie · Post by **foodie** » Tue 21 Jul 2015 6:30 am

Soner, just look on it being late payments to register to join the forum. We all enjoying opening and reading nearly everyday and if it wasn't here I for one would miss it greatly.It is also very informative. I suggest everyone pay now for this year from January and each year pay on the same month what they can afford to. New posters can pay on joining.

Post by **Soner** » Tue 21 Jul 2015 8:09 am

Thank you all so much for your kind words and support. I really would like to keep this a free to use site and make any income for costs via Businesses and sellers. I have up to now managed to keep site going and do not intend to close it down no matter whoever is making these threats/demands.

As said, just need more businesses advertising, members supporting these businesses, member telling businesses/hotels/restaurants that they are using their services as seen/mentioned/recommended on the Kibkom Forum etc... Hopefully with time things will straighten out.

Get the word out: "Advertise on the Kibkom Forum and/or the Kibapp" - it really is the best way for companies to advertise in the TRNC. Although we have almost 5,000 members, there are thousands more that visit the site that simply do not register.

sophie · Post by **sophie** » Tue 21 Jul 2015 12:27 pm

I totally agree re businesses making a contribution. You only have to look at the size of the Akinmotors Advertisement at the top of the page to realise just how much that would cost in a local paper. I also agree that people selling goods on the For Sale section should make a small donation. You pay 15% commission at the Auctions I understand - on Kibcom it is nothing. Its becoming more and more evident that businesses are using this facility. At first it was just Jo Bloggs and his Missus, selling bits and bobs but the For Sale section has changed a lot.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Tue 21 Jul 2015 2:04 pm

Soner, when making a donation via the "Sold on Kibom" button and paying in GBP you have an option to do this monthly. Is it possible to have an option to do this annually as well? The older I get, the more I forget!!!

johnerebus · Post by **johnerebus** » Thu 23 Jul 2015 7:25 am

Very simply. Kibkom is a service and I use it daily for a variety of reasons. When I taught performing arts in London I was given free theatre tickets for my students. They were not free to the students as I would tell them, "If it doesn't cost anything it isn't worth anything." They willingly paid their £1.00
I'm not saying this about Kibkom as it's worth a lot and is a very valuable service.
As as service I, and I suspect many others, would be willing to make a contribution to keep it running and guard against hackers.
How can I make a donation / contribution please? This is not charity. It's money to safeguard a very valuable service.

erol · Post by **erol** » Thu 23 Jul 2015 9:28 am

johnerebus wrote: How can I make a donation / contribution please? This is not charity. It's money to safeguard a very valuable service.

You can use the paypal link near the top of the page under the heading

"SOLD ON KIBKOM? ENJOYING KIBKOM?
Please help keep it running with a small donation."

Gumbo · Post by **Gumbo** » Fri 24 Jul 2015 6:31 am

Thank you Erol, I have just made a donation, it was easy - even to a numpty like me!
I am sure there are lots of other Kibkom lovers who will be pleased like me to help Soner in his fight with the hackers.

cathywallen · Post by **cathywallen** » Sun 26 Jul 2015 7:44 am

Is there a physical place we could drop off a donation at? For instance the Deli Cafe? Or the DVD shop? If the owners were open to it. I do realise that PayPal is easy but I'm afraid I have run into difficulties using it and I'm more of a numpty than Gumbo!
I'd be happy to pop a donation behind the counter whenever I was there. Maybe a place on either side of Girne?

squashmad · Post by **squashmad** » Sun 26 Jul 2015 10:55 am

Maybe one of the moderators who live here (ie marions) could collect it on behalf of those who do not want to or cannot use paypal????

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Sun 26 Jul 2015 1:14 pm

Always happy to help if people trust me!!!! Soner keeps saying he doesn't want charity, but wants
businesses and others to pay when selling, but equally I feel the same as others, that it is important the forum is kept going (in spite of the huge expenses Soner has experienced). Plus I agree for a few coins, Paypal is difficult, plus I must confess I don't use it!
So this is just to say that ifanyone comes up with a suitable plan as to how monies could be given to/collected by me, I am happy to fall in. Obviously a central business is a good idea, providing but was not a nuisance to the shop owner/worker.

On the other hand if anyone wanted to giv e me money for Soner if and when they see me, I am happy with that.

Let kibKomers decide.

But thanks everyone for caring enough about the Forum - that is a huge encouragement to us all.

Cally · Post by **Cally** » Sun 26 Jul 2015 5:58 pm

I am willing to make a donation for a very good service but didn't get on too well with the process & have had issues with paypal in the past so reluctant to use them. Would it be possible for Soner to open a bank account then I can transfer £'s direct

rocking · Post by **rocking** » Sun 26 Jul 2015 8:02 pm

As I said in earlier posting all for helping but do not understand pay pal, if Marion could say she would be at a certain place, certain times that would be a great way I think she is over the east side and if someone could do the west, great. So that it doesn't go on for too long to disrupt their lives, could do it twice a year on a reminder on the forum. Just a thought.

cathywallen · Post by **cathywallen** » Mon 27 Jul 2015 7:11 pm

I think if possible, it would be helpful if there was a drop off point, for instance the DVD shop ( just for example) so when I'm near by I can randomly pop some money in. Rather than having to remember certain days and times, maybe a tin under the counter that someone, Marion on the East and someone you all know and trust on the West can also pick up as they go past and drop off to Soner.
?

jacob · Post by **jacob** » Mon 27 Jul 2015 7:44 pm

Good idea Cathy.

suehowlittle · Post by **suehowlittle** » Mon 27 Jul 2015 8:18 pm

You have my support.

I am full of admiration at the way you refuse to let the hackers win.

Small donation made via Paypal. Please do not see this as charity. It certainly is not. I love using the Forum and would not want to see it fail for lack of a few small donations.

Folks, if you can help then do. Never mind what Soner says about charity. it costs real money and effort to maintain this Forum when the hackers are doing their stuff!

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Mon 27 Jul 2015 8:22 pm

I think you have won guys and gals. Soner is now thinking of how he could set up drop off points. Incidentlaly I am out West but live my life in Shooters when not at home(well, that is how it seems), but ~Soner is working on another idea and we will let you know.

Although in view of earlier posting,s perhaps I oculd be in receipt of custom at Shooters when required - that means I get to meet people and styain my 'seocn dhome'! Hmmm.

But I am personally so happy that you are all keen to support Soner - and I think you have broken through his 'embarrassment barrier'.

meldy · Post by **meldy** » Mon 27 Jul 2015 8:38 pm

Donation made. Thanks for the great service both for general information and for sales. Hope the hackers **** off!

squashmad · Post by **squashmad** » Tue 28 Jul 2015 5:49 am

Just a thought but could you use the Best Sellers Book Stores? Maybe you could put a receipt book in each?

Many of us use them for cards and books and there is one on both sides of Girne.

Post by **Soner** » Tue 28 Jul 2015 6:04 am

Squasmad, great minds think alike. Was going to ask yesterday but shop was closed. Will email Deborah today.

cathywallen · Post by **cathywallen** » Thu 30 Jul 2015 5:59 am

I think if I was a business I would be clambering for the chance to be a donation point, all those people walking into my premises! What exposure!!

foodie · Post by **foodie** » Fri 31 Jul 2015 11:21 am

Bestsellers in Alsancak is in a good position for parking. So is easy for everyone to drop in as it is on the main road.

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Sat 01 Aug 2015 12:12 pm

Might well be if you live west of Girne, not everybody does though. Have you experienced the traffic problems in Girne travelling east-west at the moment and for the immediate future?

cathywallen · Post by **cathywallen** » Sat 15 Aug 2015 7:54 am

Will there be an announcement of a couple of drop off points? I'm waiting, willing and happy to donate regularly, all be it randomly, but where, oh where can I do it?

Post by **Soner** » Sat 29 Aug 2015 8:48 am

Bestsellers Bookstore in Karakum and Alsancak have been kind enough to let us use their premises as a collection point for members that would like to help support the Kibkom forum. If you have sold on the forum then this is another option for making a donation.
Thanks again for everyone's kind support.

Toftsv · Post by **Toftsv** » Sat 29 Aug 2015 9:33 am

Soner, has bestsellers started now as that is close to me?.

Kind regards.
Peter.

Post by **Soner** » Sat 29 Aug 2015 10:18 pm

Yes, just tell them that you would like to leave a donation for Kibkom.
Thanks.

suehowlittle · Post by **suehowlittle** » Sun 30 Aug 2015 11:54 am

Brilliant news Soner.

Having made a Paypal donation without thinking of the commission that would be deducted I would now be happy to make another via Bestsellers in Alsancak.

We really appreciate the Forum and your efforts to maintain it as a quality site.

Thankyou

Barbieb · Post by **Barbieb** » Tue 06 Oct 2015 6:07 pm

I am certain the Car Boot Sale on Sundays next to Pine Bay Alsancak would be more then happy to support this, why not make some boxes for the drop of points and leave them there, then they can be collected and delivered, lets not let this one slide and well done after this time of not becoming C44, good luck!

Post by **Soner** » Sun 11 Oct 2015 9:26 am

Thanks Barieb, but Bestsellers are taking donations at both stores, however, as mentioned I do not really want to go down this route , besides, as of yet no one has made a donation.

What I would prefer is that members with businesses support the forum by buying a sticky, global sticky or an advertising banner and that members support these businesses by using them should they require any of the services/products offered (at least getting a quote from them). If businesses that advertise on the forum do well, then they will continue to advertise, which helps towards keeping the forum going.

I have now changed the Verified and Unverified Business category to just "Businesses", so any business wanting to advertise freely can do so within this category, however, if they place a post within an other category then that post will simply be moved to the Businesses category by moderators. Businesses that do purchase an annual advertising banner from Kibkom will also benefit from being able to post freely within the category that their business comes under.

Should members or members with businesses wish to get their message across more effectively, then at the least purchasing a Global Sticky will benefit their cause, and help support the forum at the same time.

Thank you to all members donating after selling, advertising or buying Stickies for your support, and a big thank you to those members that simply made a donation to help.

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