Meretlein
Moderator
- Feb 15, 2019
- 1,200
There are many reasons we do not ask for IDs. This would deanonymize our users and put them at risk from both malicious people and those who seek to lock them up for being suicidal. On SS we share things about ourselves and our lives that we may not even tell our closest friends, family members, or significant others. Much of the information we share would be incredibly violating at best and catastrophic at worst if it got out. Anonymity is essential for talking about these topics. Knowing that our identities are out there would have a subtle yet profound effect on what we share here. How can you act the same or feel the same level of comfort when you know that your identity is attached to everything you say? Discussing these topics safely requires anonymity and privacy, if it didn't then we would be sharing our stories and thoughts openly without the need to use SS.
I will say that minors intruding into places they shouldn't be is a problem, both online and in the real world. It is not a problem exclusive to suicide sites. Parents are expected to protect their children in the real world instead of demanding the world be child proof. The same holds true for the internet. Parents should learn how to monitor their child's online activity instead of demanding we compromise our safety and privacy.
I remember reading an article about having a separate internet for minors. Although the idea has some logistical problems, it is far better than kiddie proofing the entire internet and throttling conversations that need to be had.
I will say that minors intruding into places they shouldn't be is a problem, both online and in the real world. It is not a problem exclusive to suicide sites. Parents are expected to protect their children in the real world instead of demanding the world be child proof. The same holds true for the internet. Parents should learn how to monitor their child's online activity instead of demanding we compromise our safety and privacy.
I remember reading an article about having a separate internet for minors. Although the idea has some logistical problems, it is far better than kiddie proofing the entire internet and throttling conversations that need to be had.
