is that done correctly, it inhibits the automated harvesting of email and phone numbers.

Just a way to stand out. Eye catching isn't it 💋

TER should't allow hookers to use those symbols on TER. It makes us look low class like Back Page.

Almost like something a little girl would doodle in her school notebook.
Perhaps this subliminally appeals to some

As it was on CL back in the day.  Yes, it suggests that the advertiser is low end, but that should surprise no one who uses that site.  Conversely, emoticons used sparingly in ads, posts, and communications are common practice as well, and conveys an entirely different message...

I'm not sure why anyone would use them other than to alter the spelling of forbidden words... I couldn't post the word Greek so I'd just put GR€€K. I hate the way it looked but most got the point and it was no big deal.