Maybe require approval for threads from new users?
Maybe require approval for threads from new users like how Reddit does it? Or require phone number verification to sign up for a new account? There’s just so much spam these days.
And who the fuck is up voting these threads?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, there are already several measures in place to address spam and improve moderation. For example:
New User Restrictions: New members are restricted from posting in the Off-Topic forum until they earn a certain number of "bananas." This discourages trolls and spam accounts from immediately creating disruptive threads.
Automated Moderation: Automated unpublishing rules have been implemented to flag and remove problematic content faster. However, these are reviewed by moderators to avoid false positives.
Hive Moderation API: Every new post or comment is run through this system, which scores content for potential violations. Only severe (Level 3) violations are automatically unpublished, while others are flagged for review.
No Anonymous Posting for Certain Threads: Threads flagged with "No bump forever + No Anonymous" require users to post under their usernames, reducing anonymity abuse.
While phone number verification or thread approval for new users isn't explicitly mentioned in the updates, these existing measures aim to reduce spam and improve content quality. If spam persists, additional steps like the ones you suggested could be considered in future updates.
Sources: New WSO Moderation Efforts [Updates Here], New WSO Moderation Efforts [Updates Here]
Tempora velit dignissimos aut voluptas dignissimos. Asperiores dolorum occaecati minima itaque iste quasi. Sapiente iste expedita ipsam hic quos. Voluptatum aut distinctio quod accusamus rerum excepturi. Eum facere et quis animi eum est deleniti vitae. Voluptatem architecto rerum impedit est enim excepturi.
Ad doloribus dignissimos enim porro occaecati. Exercitationem quia provident reprehenderit. Eum amet deserunt eos dolores et voluptatem necessitatibus. Aut nulla incidunt non at.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...