One thing that many people might not consider is that when you let your online friends know you will be away for a time, you are letting criminals know that your home will be unoccupied, and they can then find your home address through your IP address.

You might think it harmless to share the date of your birth with your online friends to let them know when your birthday will be, but remember that each piece of information you disclose about yourself can be put together by data miners until eventually they have more information on you than you even commonly think of yourself. Giving tiny bits of information such as your first name or the name of the school or church you attend might not be advisable. Maintaining your privacy and safety requires that you exercise continual care in what personal information you give out.

Why or why didn't I find this group sooner. I see by your post that I have broken every rule possible and I should look over my shouldes for stalkers. Lesson learned.

This is great information. When I joined, I had my real name on here then changed it, as I encountered some bad interactions with other members.

Then I had another uncomfortable encouncter with a member here, and had to remember that no matter how helpful and supportive folks seem, none of us know who we am sharing information with.

It is hard for me as I am here to offer support and help to anyone who would like to be my on-line friend, but I learned the hardway not to be surprised when something odd happends.

I still love this site and it has been a life line to me... XOXO - to everyone.