An Important Safety Issue!

As a member we would like you to have a safe and fun environment. So, we would like to take a moment and remind you of a few simple things that you can do to stay safer here.

First make sure your anti-virus software is up to date and run a virus scan on a regular basis. Besides e-mail, the fastest way viruses are spread is the failure to run your anti-virus software before uploading files.

Second is Harassment and Cyber Stalking. Technological advancements have made our lives easier and there are steps you can take to keep yourself safe while browsing the internet.

1) Keep all your personal information private. Do not post your address, phone number or any other identifying information where strangers can read it. Just because people seem nice on forums it does not mean they have your best interest at heart.

2) If you feel you are being harassed or stalked, report it to our Moderating/Adminstration team immediately.

3) Save all correspondences. This includes emails, private messages and snail-mail.

4) If you receive phone calls, you should log the date, time and phone number if you have caller ID as well as anything you can remember from the conversation.

5) Sometimes people use Google Earth to get a glimpse of your home or surrounding area then show it to you to scare you. If this happens, notify Google immediately. They strictly prohibit this type of usage and will follow up with any measures deemed necessary.

We have a "Zero Tolerance Policy" when it comes to harassment and stalking, but it does occur. So, please report it immediately and be sure to document it as clearly as possible. Be aware that international borders do not protect the harasser/stalker. There are international laws in place to deal with this sort of issue.

You will probably never be on the receiving end of a stalker's attention, but by taking preventative measures it will help insure that you stay safe.

Have Fun and enjoy the Forum!