So I was in Bonfire yesterday, when another user approached me. I wasn't in a roleplay mood, so we started talking about random stuff and it all seemed to go relatively well, until I had to go walk my dog. I told her that I'll be back in thirty minutes if she still wants to talk, she can friend me or wait in the bonfire map.
Right before I logged off, she whispered me... with her phone number?! I was stunned, I mean, what? You are giving out your phone number to a complete stranger, I could be a murderer looking for an easy victim for all you know! I told her that it's bad to give out personal information like that and I'd never do it. I mean, really? It's like the couples going out of the mate center and them proceeding to establish a rendez-vous in real life, it makes no sense!
I did not log back in that night, I was already disturbed enough as it was by such an act. I always thought parents would make sure to instruct children about proper internet etiquette and safety. I also thought teenagers were responsible, looks like part of my trust in people has been eradicated.
Another aspect of this situation could be the "I love you, not your character" thing where people genuinely develop sentiments for the user, not the character, which is relatively creepy. Then they want to establish a virtual/real relationship, as if FH was a dating site. Really? There are MINORS who go on this game and people still try to do such strange things. And honestly, how do you know the person behind the screen is who you think they are? (End Rant)
Back on topic, has this ever happened to you? Is there any way of preventing this? Should kids be made more aware of the dangers of giving out such information? What can we do to increase awareness about this?