I certainly understand the reason that transitioning men and women share their photos on this forum. Where else can I go to receive such thoughtful suggestions and to be assured that I can pass and be accepted in public?
Nearly 15 years ago, being assured that I could pass bordered on an obsession. I would take another photograph almost daily and sometimes twice a day in an attempt to discern subtle changes that would convince me that I was OK and looked like any other woman in public places. I am truly fortunate that in time I was able to lay aside that fear, complete my transition, and relocate to another part of the country where I am successful in living a stealth life as the woman I am.
Since transition, I have become increasingly aware of and concerned about the exploitation of those in transition or who have transitioned. Of major concern to me is exploitation by those who troll Internet sites like this. It is certainly easy enough for anyone with malicious intentions to provide an email address and become a member. I am not criticizing the membership policy, since it allows newbies to ask questions and get a sense of who we are and how they will be accepted. But I fear for the safety and wellbeing of my sisters and brothers who post their photos and identifying information. Perhaps I am overly sensitive as a woman who lives in stealth mode. I am someone who uses encrypted email when speaking about personal issues or sharing photos of me. I have always avoided posting pictures or information on any public form that could help identify me to the many perverts and extortionists that prey on people like me.
Like most Internet posting sites, to protect Susan from lawsuits regarding her right to display what we have posted, this site's terms of service gives her the irrevocable license to whatever information that I provide, including my profile and pictures. While I have confidence in the integrity of Susan and those who manage this site, not all sites are as scrupulous.
If you are comfortable with revealing your transition to others in your community, including strangers, then this may not be an issue. But if you have contemplated living a stealth life, or personal privacy is very important to you, I hope you will give some thought before posting your picture or identifying information either here or anywhere else on the Internet.
