reference vs. tracking numbers

[+d_elle1107]

hello, im pretty new to this. i was just wondering if someone could please tell me the difference between the code to reference a trackable and the tracking number. thanks a bunch!

[+Walts Hunting]

The reference number is public and anyone clicking on the bug description will see it. You can search based on that and you can reference it in the forums and emails.

 

The tracking number is what is on the dog tag and is private. it ensures that only a person who has the bug (except that they do get passed around at events) can write a log. IT SHOULD NEVER BE DISPLAYED IN A PICTURE OR MENTIONED IN A LOG.

 

If someone posts a picture or writes a log revealing it you should immediately request that they change the log or remove the picture. If they fail to in a reasonable time delete the log (this will automatically remove the picture). If the number gets out and you start getting lots of bogus logs the froggie may lock your traveler and forever prevent it from being logged.

 

If you look at someone else's traveler you will only see the reference number. When you look at yours you will see the reference number and then over on the right side the tracking number.

[+d_elle1107]

thanks for the reply! one more question: if im using a geocoin as a personal geocoin and i want to let other cachers "discover" me, is it ok for me to give them the tracking number or should i give them the reference number?

[+Max and 99]

I'd give them the tracking number if they saw the coin in person and want to log a discovery on it.

[+Walts Hunting]

They have to have the tracking number to log it

[+BlueDeuce]

The reference number is the public number (will NOT allow you to log a discover, grab or retrieve log) Feel free to post the reference number in your log or forum post.

 

The tag number (or tracking number) is the private number (secret number that allows you to log a discover, grab or retrieve log) Never post the tag number online or show the number in a posted picture.