Username change to real name?

[Drew G]

Hey! I was wondering if/how I could get my name changed from "rippedknees" to my actual name or maybe an abbreviated version, like "Drew G". I recently dealt with Brian Adair, and the confidence from dealing with a trader like that who makes his name known from the get go seems like something useful to have.

I don't know if such a change is possible, and I know it's a hassle for whoever's answering this or helping me, but shedding this anonymity seems like it could only help to build a good reputation here, and I'd like to stick around for awhile so I figured I'd ask

[kturock]

Just a suggestion, but it's been stated, on the internet and news stories; you don't want to list you real name, address, or other personal infromation on the web.

Yes, with alittle work, all of it can be found by someone diligent; but bots harvest alot of info.

It's one of the easiest, and best ways to get your identity stolen.

So are places like facebook and the like. The more you list about yourself, the easier it is to get your ID stolen. or your house. [there have been news stories about people actually saying they won't be on-line for a period of time, since they are going away. the they return and find their house has been burglarized.]

Which is one of the reasons I don't join any of the myspace, facebook or their ilk sites.

[MagickalMemories]

If, in light of what kturock just said (which really IS something to think about), you're still interested, PM me and let me know what you were wanting to change it to.

Eric

[Drew G]

Hey! Thanks for the word of caution about that both of you - you're right I should be careful with personal information like that. I'm not tooo worried about giving out my name, as it (unfortunately) can be easily found by checking my references I've given this some thought since you first replied kturock, and I think I'd still like to go ahead with it if it's not too much trouble Eric. I think something a little bit more genuine like a name/nick name would leave a better first impression than a rock song for being taken seriously as a trader At 18 rep, I need all the help I can get! You're very right about practicing discretion with things like addresses and other personal info, and that's something I'll continue to do and to advocate. It's a little unnerving to imagine what could be done by someone who really wants to dig up information found on the net.

Eric, consider a pm sent! And I'll keep an eye on your wanted bits lists for this favor haha

[kturock]

Checking refs is something, I don't believe that bots can do. Reading info and member lists is.

I hope someone more knowledgable and credible sources of information will chime in and inform us.
I'm working from memory of a only half-watched story.

[JohnHwangBT]

I've been using my Real Name (tm) on:
- ebay
- yahoo
- Gmail
- Btown
- DakkaDakka
and various other sites.

IMO/IME, it's not a problem using one's name as one's ID, as long as one pays attention to Internet security.

Personally, I like people who use their own names, but that's a minority opinion.