Give up the personal info
[QUOTE=MikeGrandy13;2003149]I am looking to get back in the hobby. However, all decent providers need references or a verified account. In order to have a verified account you either pay for it or review providers. Paying for it seems pointless to me because LEO can do that. Providing reviews is impossible because you can't get an appointment without being verified...so frustrating.
I have been out of the hobby for about 3 years but have been an avid lurker of these boards.
Any tips?
MG.[/QUOTE]I'm new to this too and have found the only way to get any references is to provide screening information, like your real name and work information. I'm sure you have reservations about that (we all do), but it was a risk I was willing to take, and the info wasn't compromised. Candace at SBL and several independent providers (Vicky and Melissa Nash to name a few) do employment screening. I've just become a member at P411, which despite recent posts, appears to be the most respected verification site. I can tell you they were very thorough in screening me anyway.
Pbj.