Are online message forums dangerous?

We talk about using groups and forums as links and as potential sources of traffic. It begs the question:

Are online message forums dangerous?

That is a tricky answer. They can be both safe and dangerous.

The reputable ones are safe of course, but there is always the chance that some "bad" person or people are waiting to cause problems.

The danger's could be many, someone trying to

The danger's could be many, someone trying to access your computer....a standard practice with cookies but that is normal and safe, but if someone is trying to access your computer for evil well, that's a whole new ball game.

To be on the safe side there are a few things you can do when visiting a forum or group. If you are really nervous run your spyware or anti-spam program before and after your are done your online activity and always clear your cache.

You can clear your cache in the tools option on your monitor.

Test a forum out first before you add any personal details.

I always have a specific email address for forums that is separate from my main email account unless I am active in the forum or I trust it from the beginning.

Pick a screen name in the beginning. Don't use your real name unless it is with close members whom you trust. Never give out your credit card information, no forum member will ever ask for things like that. If they do....RUN!

A final resort, I know a few people who do this, only access forums from a computer that is not your own. Use the library for example. Then your personal computer is safe at all times.

I always use forums I have been referred to by folks I trust. I personally think the safest forums are paying ones. Even if it is a buck a month....it is worth much more because the forum owner(s) are charging for the service and they don't want their reputations ruined so you can bet your bottom dollar it will be safe.

So are online message forums dangerous?

There is no yes or no answer, you need to use your personal judgment.

Happy surfing.

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