I tried the search page and could not figure out the image verification crap. I think I only got it right once.. colors are shitty and with whatever graphic it throws on it, it skews the letters. lame.

 

You'll notice other forums use that feature. It's not specific to TGO. It is supposed to be the way you described it to prevent automated searches.

As well, you should not see that unless you're searching while not logged in.

I suggest you log in when searching. Besides, when you're logged in, you have more search options than guests anyways.