Having your real name known by everyone was a security issue, as it was part of your account credentials.

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For instance, the console's "True Name" social functionality isn't automatic -- you have to opt-in to who will see your real name versus your PlayStation Network ID.

ENGADGET

America Online suggested that your primary account -could- be your real name, but if you did that, it was recommended you create a second account with a screen name by which you interacted with other users on the service.

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So they can figure out that your (real-name) Facebook account, and your pseudonymous OkCupid, Forbes, and RottenTomatoes accounts all belong to the same person.

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We embraced the idea that you need to attach your picture and real name to profiles and blogs.

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If you Googled your real estate agent and the first hit on her name was about her cheating on her husband, should you tell her?

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First, for a credit-card payment of twenty-five dollars, the Web site will verify your name and address (which means that a member can be certain she is hosting the real Ripper, and not an impostor).

NEWYORKER: You��re Welcome