Specifically, this is how you get to trust level 2 (after which you can send PMs):
visiting at least 15 days, not sequentially
casting at least 5 likes
receiving at least 5 likes
replying to at least 3 different topics
entering at least 20 topics
reading at least 100 posts
spend a total of 60 minutes reading posts
Or you can get verfied, which boosts you instantly to trust level 3.
I believe you can receive PMs (and reply) at any trust level.
We unfortunately have to take precautions. Other local SE23 forums were sabotaged by someone that PMed porn to all members. We experienced multiple sabotage attempts on this forum itself since we started in May.
Or you can pop into Sugar Mountain and meet Pauline or if you are desperate you can PM me and I can meet you in FH to verify you are a real person. I work from home so happy to oblige.