This image speaks volumes
In a move that mirrors Activision’s series of questionable decisions, Blizzard decided they would modify their battle net policies.
This morning it’s been announced that moving forward, Battle Net and most forums (set aside very few classic forums) will have users posting with their “RealID” – which means their real first and last names. Blizzard insists that it has everything to do with the explosion of social networking but does not mention that it makes them look batshit insane like their parents (Activision) or Facebook. Internet users are no stranger to privacy concerns – so this move by Blizzard is interesting to say the least. The immediate backlash in the thread goes to show the disapproval of the change. Concerns include people’s names being linked to what they say on the forums among other things. With anonymity gone, potential employers could see people’s less than savory flame wars or image posts. While the idea of an interviewer getting a face full of goatse is mildly amusing it does support the red flags raised in the discussion. What will be really interesting however, is to see if Blizzard wavers on their decision. Facebook has already showed that they have no plans to honor people’s complaints regarding privacy so why should Blizzard?
Tags: activision, blizzard, facebook, privacy
[...] is how some trolls are likely reacting to the Blizzard Real ID Controversy. var a2a_config = a2a_config || {}; a2a_config.linkname="Blizard Real ID Reaction"; [...]
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“face full of goatse” is the worst thing I’ve ever imagined. I’m going to be sick.
I don’t understand the need for companies to take away privacy from online forums etc… Most boards I read have a pretty serious self policing policy. Board ops and moderators LOVE keeping an eye on that stuff. They wield their banhammers like Mjolnar!