If You Had to Disclose Your True Identity in SL...

People do things in SL that they don't want associated with their real identities. Participation in role-playing games (whether online or face to face), e.g., has a certain stigma in our car-and-football culture, and exposure may have negative consequences at work or school. That's even more the case for online sexual activity, of course.

Understatement of the Year.

Thanks for the explanation, Lindal. Clearly I haven't thought this out properly. I go inworld as an escape, and nothing I do is likely to be considered offensive or criminal. The postings here have opened my eyes a bit; I can see now that there are goings on that simply wouldn't have crossed my mind. So, yes, I can see why there might be good reasons for having some basic ID on users.

However, living as I do in a country where privacy at all levels is being eroded over time (by people who insist their own privacy must be maintained), I am still very wary of ID. One of the things I found attractive years ago about the internet was being able to be anonymous. OK, I know really that probably isn't the case; but there is a level of anonymity which allows people freedoms they otherwise wouldn't feel safe in pursuing.

So I take the points made, but still feel that if my real identity ever has to be linked to SL, then I will bid SL goodbye. SL just isn't that important.

Sigh. I am so far past being able to make this statement, with any truth anyway.....

That's right. And this is an image that LL would like to leave behind.

The fact that Wallace solicited opinions on this indicates that eliminating anonymous accounts is on LL's front burner.

As others have said, it's unlikely that LL will require all avatars to have a Verified RL Name over their heads (though it's quite possible that they will not only make it possible for this to be available as an option, but will also hope that it becomes widespread, as a means of shoehorning the immersionists out of SL.)

It does seem likely, however, that LL will phase in a 'no access to SL unless you have verifiable RL information on file with us' policy.

No way I will disclose anything. If I could get a credit card under this name, I would.

What my typist does in the "real world" has very little connection to what I do in MY world - that of SL.

Tearing down that barrier might seriously damage OUR economic stability.

We're not even FaceBook friends...

My First Life tab has a pictire of my SL avatar in anthro she-wolf form, and the following statement, which is all the "Real Life" information that I am willing to post. :

"Details of my personal life are private, beyond saying that I'm married in RL, probably older than you are, and I am not in any way interested in any relationships outside of SL."

Several of my alts also include the clear statement "this is a fictional character".

I have absolutely zero interest or willingness to link my name or other real-world information to my avatar in any publicly-accessible manner. If forced to do so, or if it becomse "expected" that you'll disclose real info to be "trusted" as a business person in SL, then I'll quit before revealing my personal data.

I'm less worried about people knowing who I am here, than 'real life' people finding out that I'm Des... wow that can make for some weirdness.

Sorry, Treasure; it wasn't very clear: a good reason why I ought never to post when tired. I meant it is not important enough should it became a choice between SL and privacy. For me, SL is a nice escape, and something to be valued. But not valued above privacy.

Hmm, I hadn't even considered that perspective. Reckon some of my RL friends would find it a bit odd if they knew me in-world. "You do what? As a what?"

I like my SL name better than my RL name. I chose/made it. I'd only wear my RL name as a tag if I had to (again I don't much care about RL/SL revelations, there's just no big secrets, other than safety concerns, I have no reason to care.) I just like the name better.

LoL

"You mean, when you're doing that stuff... you have FUR??? And you have ... three... tails? HUH?"

If and when these forums close, Jig, I want to know which ones you go to. Forums just wouldn't be the same without you.

Someone should point this poll out to Wallace. There are enough responses to be statistically significant.

Well it is a very pretty and evocative name!

I'd be perfectly happy with that.

The poll doesn't take into account the opinions of the millions of imaginary non-customers Linden Lab bases their decisions on.

Hellz Naw.

I'll take you with me.

I hope so. I want to "nip this one in the bud".

ditto. every SL forum i frequent could stand a little of gettin' Jiggy with it.

I'll bring you along too Eternus - dont forget to friend me.

Put me on the mailing list too.

But, what about Pep? We got to have Pep too!!!

I had a gallery show recently (and dang! I still haven't sent out thank you notes for that.) The wonderful gallery folks wanted me to reveal my RL identity to somehow avoid copyright infringement. My mind just doesn't come up with those kinds of schemes, but I know some do, so I didn't mind at all.

It's not like anyone really cares or like I posted my address and phone number. Actually it was a bit gratifying to reveal to a very few that I do not in fact have a cheesy soap opera name in real life. But at the end of the day or month or whatever, I'm just as anonymous now as before.

But I would fight tooth and nail for others to protect their anonymity - not just for privacy, but for the mystery and wonder. I really am an immersionist. I don't want to know the dragon I am frightened of or beautiful lady tossing me treats is really a lawyer or accounting assistant. We all already have first lives. Why do we need a Second First Life?

Pats Weston on the head and gives him a doggie biscuit. "Good boy!"