[vinceguidry]

The Internet over the years has taught me the fine art of non-engagement. Just... stop. The instant it starts going down a bad road, stop. Don't send another message, or send a blithely positive one just to blunt the energy and move on.

Seems so simple, but I think the need for closure is what keeps many from being able to do this. But it's dangerous. The Internet is dangerous. All it takes is for one person, it doesn't even have to be a party to the interaction, to ruin your day if not your life.

Legal threats? Please. This guy might SWAT you.

[Topgamer7]

I agree. Don't poke the internet bear. You might not fully understand the level of crazy on the other end of the router.

[jik]

I've been poking the internet bear for over 30 years. That's quite obvious if you read the other articles on my blog. I'm not one to back down from a fight when I think someone is in the wrong. And yes, sometimes I've paid for that, such as when a Usenet kook tried to get me fired from my job for having the temerity to disagree with him. But overall I'd rather be the guy who stood up for what I believed was right than the guy who didn't. As always, YMMV.

[vinceguidry]

30 years ago, I'd have been right there with you. Nowadays? Oh hell no. The threat landscape has changed.