It was raised sometime ago about how this site can be accessed via a google search for words. Its just a function of the internet not a security problem of this forum.
It does lend itself to a "slight" concern, paticularly to solo's, in my opinion. If you list your full name, address that is easy to identify and date of birth, then it could be accessed by "others", and you identified.
Not meaning to claim there is an issue here, just I believe it is wiser to have only your first name, Region address (ie NSW) and just the year of your birthday (ie 1955-0-0)
We do not need personal detail to chat, just a first name and where you are from. I have mentioned this to a few people, and they seemed to understand, enough to change their profile, but I noticed a couple more "newbies" providing all, so rather than send a PM to each, I write this.
For those that wish to change, just go to your profile and delete the extras, or place "0" in the box. Leave your email address hidden, as you can provide it, if it is needed.
I once brought this up, newbies were giving out as much as phone numbers as well as addresses, I was howled down and called all sorts and one feller even indignantly refused to post in the forum anymore, saying that I should "mind my own business", well I hope that nobody is minding his business for him for giving out his personal details
we even had a respected member that stated "if they wish to ring me on my mobile then that is at their cost", yes but they dont stop there, they get the number and an address and a couple of other details and next they are in your bank account
all I was trying to do was to prevent your personal information from geting in to the wrong hands, people dont realise just how little information is needed by a skilled person to then access things like bank accounts and social security numbers and eventually play havoc with YOUR life
there will be people here that will howl you down as well two bob but I for one applaud the try and am 100% behind you!!
hopefully others will see the post for what it is meant to be A WAKE UP CALL
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me, the dragon, & little blue, never stop playing, live long, laugh lots, travel far, give a stranger a smile, might just be your next best freind. try to commit a random act of kindness everyday
My heartfelt thanks Bob. I'm with Dave on this one and have amended my profile accordingly.
Thanks
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Guru & Ma Ulladulla NSW Happy day, safe travelling Ford Ranger towing 21ft Jurgen shower and toilet which was large enough to fit in a few extras (fridge, bed, stove...)
We all have to e extremely vigilant on the internet these days. Bob and Dave, your warnings are always timely, and we can't be reminded too often about our personal security. The scammers are everywhere doing their best to take advantage of the naive and gullible, or the arrogant. Let's do all we can to avoid being ripped off. It's more than just our business. It's everybody's business to stay safe on more places than just the road. The least we can do is look after each other. Cheers Chris
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20ft Roma caravan - Mercedes Benz Sprinter - SA-based at the moment. Transport has no borders.
Management makes the decisions, but is not affected by the decisions it makes.