Aw, Picker, you're too cynical. We have lots of honest people right here.

I have to say that I agree with people who are reluctant to reveal personal information about themselves on the Internet - there ARE many dishonest people who use the Internet as a gold mine of personal information that they can exploit.

I use my own name here and I'm fairly open about myself, but I geep secrets about things. Every August, there's a guessing game here about what may actual birthday is, because it's well-known that I don't think it's a good idea to reveal one's date of birth publicly. I also don't think it's a good idea to post your address, phone number, or travel plans. I didn't announce the death of my mother because it was a private time for me and my family. Others find solace on sad occasions in the goodness of the community here, so they reveal stuff like that.

You have to balance the advantages with the risks whenever you reveal personal information on the Internet.

-Joe Offer-