#BotOrNot
How to Identify Bot Activity:
1. Repetitive Order Patterns:
Bots tend to execute orders with identical values and regular intervals. If you notice that whenever you place an order, another one appears just above or below with a minimal difference, there’s a good chance a bot is manipulating the order book.
2. Phantom Orders:
Bots often insert large orders that quickly disappear when the price approaches. This creates a false impression of support or resistance, confusing human traders.
3. Unjustified Volume Spikes:
In thinly traded markets, a sudden increase in volume — especially if followed by an immediate reversal — may indicate automated manipulation.
4. Spoofing Manipulation:
This technique consists of creating large buy or sell orders to influence the market, but canceling them before they are executed.
5. Millisecond Execution Patterns:
If orders are executed always in exact fractions of time or volume (e.g., every 5 seconds or always 0.123 ETH), it is likely that a bot is acting.
How to Overcome Bot Activity
1. Avoid Following Immediate Flow:
In low liquidity markets, patience is your greatest weapon. Bots often try to induce impulsive trades — do not fall into this trap.
2. Split Your Orders:
Instead of placing a single large order, break it down into smaller, spaced-out lots. This reduces the chance of attracting bots that track specific volumes.
3. Take Advantage of Manipulation:
By identifying clear bot patterns, you can enter in the opposite direction of the manipulation at the right moment, especially when large "phantom" orders disappear.
4. Use "Iceberg" Orders:
This technique allows only a small fraction of your order to be visible in the order book, making it harder for bots seeking volume to manipulate the market.
5. Trade Outside of Peak Hours:
Bots are more active when volume is low. Trading during busier periods reduces their influence.