As more and more users divulge personal information on the Internet, the lines between the real world and cyberspace start to blur.

Anonymity, Both Online and Offline

Recently, Facebook has been steadily pushing its users to avoid aliases and to use their real names on their accounts. This lies in stark contrast to Twitter, which still allows aliases to be used. Google+, which was initially against using aliases, eventually allowed users to adopt them.

Until now, there still seems to be an ongoing debate about whether real names or pseudonyms should be used online and which does more harm than not.

However, there are certain instances when anonymity is definitely necessary.

For example, political activists using pseudonyms have used social networking sites to disseminate information, to encourage support for their cause and to schedule rallies. These political activists would be in danger if they used their real names, since it would make them easy targets for their enemies.

Likewise, victims or important witnesses to crimes use pseudonyms to protect themselves. Later on, adopting aliases may be needed for them to start over.

Avoiding the Cyberazzi and Other Online Threats

However, the popularity of social networking has given rise to what is called "cyberazzi." Cyberrazzi is a term that refers to people who aim to destroy a person online, either through cyberstalking or cyberbullying.

People stealing identities, pretending to be someone else online or posting harmful, personal information about others have filled newspaper reports in recent years. Affecting children and adults alike, no one is sake from cyber attacks.

So in times like these, it pays to be smart. Online users can protect themselves by adopting certain safety measures:

1. Keep your personal details and location private as much as possible. Don't add people you don't know or people you can't trust in your social networks.

2. Protect your online accounts by using strong passwords with unique characters on all your accounts. Don't use the same password for multiple accounts.

3. Protect your online activity by using a secure HTTPS connection. Avoid visiting websites that pose potential security threats to your computer.