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Original poster

Zombie threads - what's wrong with them?

35 replies

hipstercat · 30/05/2019 17:58

My random wondering of the day... Why is it always pointed out with annoyance if someone posts to a zombie thread? Is this part of some kind of internet etiquette I'm unaware of? Why is this bad?

OP posts:
gamerchick · 30/05/2019 20:34

Also it is trolls who bump zombie threads either to stir up trouble, or spam their business or get kicks for their fetish

Or bump their post count although baby names is handy for this, yanno before asking for pee stories.

The most ridiculous was someone who dragged up an old thread to answer a question (re a buggy I think) and she didn't even notice that it was her who asked the question eight years previously - she was answering herself

I don't think that's quite what happened. Someone else bumped the thread

Seriously, it's bloody annoying. So just don't.

Personally I'd have the buggers locked since people can't see the message that it's an old thread before posting. The one that's right in your face Hmm

ThreeRandomWords · 30/05/2019 19:29

I don't see the problem. Often, people come across threads by googling and are looking for some advice from someone who has been in a similar position. The advice may no longer be relevant to the OP, but may still be useful to others.

SilverySurfer · 30/05/2019 19:23

It's irritating - if you wish to discuss a subject start a new thread, don't dredge one up from years ago.

The most ridiculous was someone who dragged up an old thread to answer a question (re a buggy I think) and she didn't even notice that it was her who asked the question eight years previously - she was answering herself Hmm

Nearlythere1 · 30/05/2019 18:44

I agree OP, i was on one just the other day when the conversation had got into full swing again, all of us fully aware it was a zombie thread, then up pops some idiot going "zombie zombie zombie" as if we're fucking morons. Superior moo honestly, did she think her useless interjection would make us all go, "oh no, i'll just leave this conversation in full swing because of this"?. And I told her that, and mumsnet deleted my comment.

bruffin · 30/05/2019 18:14

Also it is trolls who bump zombie threads either to stir up trouble, or spam their business or get kicks for their fetish

bridgetreilly · 30/05/2019 18:13

It's very irritating to e.g. suggest names for a baby that is now ten years old. In general, if you've got a question now, just start a new thread about it.

bruffin · 30/05/2019 18:11

Its because nobody reads the lastest thread, answer ops 10 year old thread, whose weaning baby is now a huge 10 year old etc or advice has changed
Have seen some upsetting ones ie miscarriage post bought up which the original OP might find upsetting.

Original poster
hipstercat · 30/05/2019 18:10

But the question is usually relevant to other people as well, so why does it matter if the discussion was started years ago and the original poster is long gone? 'Reviving' an old thread has the same effect as posting the same question again on a new thread, doesn't it?

OP posts:
babynumber2onboard · 30/05/2019 18:06

What's a zombie thread?

gamerchick · 30/05/2019 17:59

Because people reply to the first post, which is irritating if it's years old.

Or people will reply not realising it's their own thread started years ago.