Posted by Brian on June 10, 2005 at 10:40 [152.163.100.72]
In Reply to: Re: babytess is safe posted by L.E. on June 10, 2005 at 08:04
L.E. It's not paranoia - it's caution - not unlike "Don't walk home alone late at night," or "Don't open the door to strangers." Even with eyes wide open, if a woman allows a predator proximity, the chances for harm have increased dramatically.
You are correct in that one can encounter this in everyday life, and we can do so even with precautions. Still, the internet introduces a degree of anonymity and potential deceipt typically not experienced locally (indeed one CAN cite exceptions)and individuals can assume virtually any identity they wish.
As in any endeavor, the majority of those who utilize the net to seek sexual partners and romance are authentic. Unfortunately, we reside in a barely civilized world (disputable) in which domestic violence, misogyny, and predatory behavior are persistently problematic. I would never advise a LG to live in fear, but it is foolish to suggest that pre-meeting trust cannot be fraudulent.
It's not the "KINK" that is the issue - it's the medium - meeting in cyberspace - more than one "Cherry Blossom" bride seeking love, marriage, kids, and a white picket fence have ended up brutalized or worse.
Also, these are precautions that people SHOULD take whether they meet a potential on-line, @ a local S&M club, or @ the market - literally any time the person is unknown to you. It doesn't necessarily require one to use an extensive checklist, but they should at the very least:
1. Have enough trust - per your suggestion.
2. Know something concrete - my personal recommendation is a verifiable physical address.
3. An out - a means to exit the encounter easily, and this can involve a direct assist from a friend or an ally to call.