3n3rGy

Guest Writer

Although you may think Whyville dating is a good idea, a way of comfort, whatever, it can be highly dangerous. Yes, I know you've been told not to give out personal information, but wait, you already have made that mistake, before you even realized it! Your first name is personal info!

I know it doesn't seem like a big deal, but giving out your first name is just the first step. Did your Whyville b/f or g/f give you a birthday present? Whoops, I guess your birthday slipped out too. And wait, the famous, "What's your e-mail so I can add you to my MSN messenger?" Giving out your e-mail can get downright dangerous. Can you imagine if someone showed up at your door, a stalker from Whyville or MSN or somewhere you never knew?

I'm not saying you should be paranoid and that everyone is out to get you, but the true fact is that some people are.

Now, more into the b/f g/f thing, which I still don't fully understand. A Whyville character of the opposite sex might seem cute to you, but behind that cute face is a real-life person sitting at their computer. So what if she tells you she is a tall blonde skinny girl who's 13 years old? Have you always told the truth about yourself on Whyville? Or what if he told you he really is a cute guy with a 6-pack? Maybe they even have pictures to prove it. Well, tell me, how do you know those are their pictures?? Why would they risk giving them out in the first place? Or tell me how you're sure your cute little boyfriend is not a guy but a girl. Possibly a 60 year old woman looking for company. Have I scared you yet??

What I'm saying is, pictures or no pictures, you can't totally trust ANY online buddies. And if you're totally disagreeing, maybe you need some fresh air -- even better, grab a newspaper.

I know you've heard this all a million times, but then why do so many girls and guys end up physically hurt or even *shivers* dead because of internet relations? It all starts with just your first name.

Staying Safe,
3n3rGy