#these situations are why internet safety matters so much.

[cryptidmomochi]

did you know?

the insistence by commentary creators on treating children the same way as adults has caused ridiculous amounts of harm.

over and over i would see drama about various artists, and so many of them were just kids. some of them were younger than me, but i didnt know that. i thought they were all much older than me, because that's how they were treated.

"oh this person was a groomer" they were a child. if a child is exhibiting groomer-like tendencies, they don't just get that out of nowhere.

"oh this person pretended to have mental illness or s/h for attention" that is not a thing that normal people do. you look stupid when you say that. just because someone is doing something "for attention" doesn't mean nothing's actually wrong.

"this kid was racist" im from an extremely white, quite cishet, and very able-bodied town (or, at the very least, the town is inaccessible enough that you just don't see that many disabled people, who knows). sometimes you learn bigoted rhetoric, then have to unlearn it. sometimes you say stupid shit because other people around you say that exact stupid shit. kids in particular do not always know better. just because theyre 16 doesn't mean they're exempt from being stupid.

like.

can we stop hatemobbing fucking children. i have at least lingered online for almost 10 years. kids are one of the most likely groups to get harassed, often by adults. im glad i never developed a sizeable following before i turned 18. i wouldnt have been able to handle it either.

but im just shouting to the void, really. commentary creators dont fucking learn. they just hop onto the next bandwagon and ignore it.

do you ever wonder why so many commentary types keep getting into trouble? hopeless peaches, creepshow, daftpina, turkey tom, omnia, prison mate luke, im sure i could think of more given the time and given a little bit more research to track down some old creators i used to watch. good people don't go online and talk about kids like they should be killed. the art commentary community as a whole is rife with toxicity, seemingly always searching for small prey nobody's heard of. I remember a very long time ago there was a "drama" because an artist on deviantart didn't want their art being favourited (they misunderstood what it did) and that was a big enough deal to start making videos about. playlists upon playlists preying on kids being stupid.

if not kids, then any other vulnerable group will do just fine, too. if you remember the "tumblr art style", youll know it had a few main "characteristics"; ambiguous race, hairy legs, character depictions that weren't conventionally attractive, bandaids, s/h scars, drawing the characters with different body types, depictions of mental illnesses and disorders, the works. the "tumblr art style" was, in reality, a dogwhistle. it wasn't about the art. it was about the fact that it wasnt a white, cishet, able-bodied, neurotypical man or woman. that was a topic for a few years. "the problem with the tumblr art style", "tumblr art style cringe", i only knew of tumblr from those types of videos when i was in middle school.

commentary rarely if ever cares about justice. its just another dime in their wallet, and if they have to harass kids to get it, well, that's just fine.

[snekdood]

ig my biggest issue with fandoms is the almost... false closeness thats there in them? ig since i was a kid and wasnt good at enforcing boundaries and was just excited to find ppl with the same interest I didn't really think about it but be real like, there was a vibe that it was "okay" and "fine" to expose a lot about ourselves to eachother that... i think if we knew eachother irl... we'd hafta be a lot closer than that to see or hear about that stuff...

[goldsbitch]

I'm not sure if your requests are open but what about the whole fire situation at McLaren, Lando can't find the reader and he's freaking out and he cares more about finding her than putting shoes on - obv she's be OK and just stand there with oscar or sth 😭

-omg I love this request! added a bit here and there, so hope you'll like it...thank you!!

Fire.

Rick was a 23 year old McLaren assistant who, by sheer luck, managed to land a job with the racing team. This being his first season and immediately being thrown into following the team on the road. It was an exciting life, but a little fast and hard to follow in the beginning. He was just trying to blend it and feel out what is it that is actually required from him.

It was few hours after the fire was put down and if he knew one thing it was that corporate is expecting a quick short report asap, before the long report from health and safety people follows. He'd been sitting there, in Pirelli hospitality, stressed out as if his life depended on this - and honestly, it probably did a little bit. It was quite baffling to him why was it that the team elected him to be in charge or reports to corporate. On a normal day, it was fairly easy - reporting minor injuries, heatstrokes and collecting reports from the mechanics and resending them. And now, he was to do a full on fire report? He hasn't even seen one before!

He tried to ignore his inner panic and put together few pages of text, trying to tune into the confusing language corporate sometimes required. The part he dreaded the most was "describing how the drivers were evacuated" part of the form.

Oscar Piastri (driver 81) had not been at the premise when the fire was detected, therefore there was no need to evacuate him.

Lando Norris (driver 4) had been running around like a panic filled duck making the evacuation way more difficult for everyone.

Nope, this was not even an option, no matter how much would Rick like to send this out and watch the world burn, again.

Lando Norris (driver 4) was in his driver room when the evacuation started, definitely not blasting his music into unhealthy levels and certainly did not miss the first warning because of it.

Nope.

Lando Norris (driver 4) used his unique ability to be as extra as possible at any given moment that we can thank him for creating yet another viral moment, the image of him, standing outside the mobile hospitality building with no shoes, gaining a permanent place on the internet.

This was going to be a difficult decision for poor Rick.

//

Lando was excited about the Barcelona race, this being only the second time he was on pole. And all of that happening on the weekend he and his new girlfriend decided to make their relationship official, hard launch around the paddock.

But he also understood he needed his alone time to get prepared and Y/N supported that completely, not wanting him to babysit her constantly.

He was full on enjoying his pre-race ritual. Chilling on his couch and blasting music loudly and proudly, flicking his toes to the rhythm of the latest bops and getting lost in his strategy, going over the plan they had for that race.

All was good and well - until the smoke coming from the stairs started to spread, together along with panic.

"Lando!" a voice said while barging unapologetically through his door. "We need to evacuate!"

He nearly had a heart attack and fell of the sofa, as he did not expect anything to happen on that nice Sunday morning.

"What?" he said, putting his music on mute and only now hearing the general mayhem happening outside his door, dark milky smoke rolling in.

"We need to evacuate you!" his assistant said once again, rushing to him and getting him up.

"Lando!" said another voice that marched in with the same intention. "How come you're still here, we need to move out!"

"What the fuck is happening outside?" confused Lando asked, not really used to people storming into his room right before the race. His eyes flashed between the two assistants, both out of breath because they were probably not used to running.

"Em, fire...down at the staircase, so we gotta go that way," one of them said, gesturing somewhere towards his left.

"Wait, so near the canteen?" Lando asked. Shit, that was where he left Y/N. Oh god. Both of them nodded, trying to gesture him to move outside, which he did not.

"Has anyone seen my girlfriend?" he continued with the questions firmly.

"Um, Y/N?" one of the assistants asked, not expecting this question.

"Yes, who else?" Lando responded impatiently, panic growing in.

"I don't know, I never want to assume anything..."started rambling the one who marched in first.

Lando couldn't help but roll his eyes, where we all the competent people when he needed them? Once again, these two were gesturing him to start evacuating.

"I need to call her first," he said, taking his phone out and dialing her number. It was a very bizarre scenery to watch, the three of them just standing there while everyone was rushing around.

One, two, three, four very long dials. Two pairs of eyes shooting arrows at Lando, who stood firmly, hoping she'll pick up. Nothing. Was that actual panic he was starting to feel?

"Ok, I gotta go check out the canteen and find her, you two can go and tell everyone I'm ok," he said and brushed past them and went to the hallway.

He overhead someone trying to give orders, but based on the scene ahead of him, people rushing back and forth without clear direction, nobody seemed to pay that much attention. "Please, make your orderly exit, follow the signs, this is not a drill, this is not a drill. Breathe through your nose."

The driver was making his way through flocks of people going the other direction while the smoke and acrid smell grew on intensity that even Lando, with his cough and blocked nose, could actually smell it. He managed to avoid everyone, leaving the two poor assistants who came to search for him behind, until he bumped into another rushing person most likely giving him a black eye.

"Ouch! Lando! Everyone is looking for you, we gotta evacuate," stated the another new member of the team, who Lando vaguely recalled as Rick, while he held his puffing eye. And finally, fire alarm started to produce its signature deafening sound.

"Sorry! Sorry!" he apologized loudly, not wanting to cause more trouble, which was failing quite miserably. "I know, you're all looking for me, but is anyone looking for Y/N?" Lando asked, his priorities being very clear.

Rick was slightly confused, trying to recall if she had already evacuated or not.

"Did you see her going outside?" Lando demanded answers from anyone present and poor Rick was on the frontline.

"I don't know, I was over there-" he pointed to a room, where Y/N would definitely not be - the men's room.

"Fuckin' shit," Lando cursed and left Rick standing and marched over to where the smoke was coming from, trying to remember to breathe through his nose.

It was the first time she visited him in the paddock, which was already stressful enough, as he imagined. This was his home, he knew every corner and secret this place held - but she didn't! And also - he was Lando Norris, people would go out and search for him, but it was his job to make sure that his girlfriend is ok. And he was doing a very shit job at that, at least in his mind. Actual firefighters started to appear at the scene and finally the evacuation started to resemble orderly departure, rather than an obscure rave. He finally arrived near to the canteen when he got stopped by one of the firemen.

"Sir, you have to leave now, the other way!" he ordered, not interested in anyone's bullshit.

"I know, I just gotta check my girlfriend is not there, nobody is looking for her-"

"We are looking for everyone and you are making our job harder, please evacuate and let us work."

Lando was starting to understand that his actions might be creating more chaos than good, so he nodded and turned around, only to see the entourage of three assistant walking towards him, trying to get through the firefighters.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm going," he shouted and gestured them to turn around, which they only did once they saw his actually going the right way and following evacuation orders.

The strange quartet finally rolled outside, three of them finally being able to relax as they got the driver out, while he was on the verge of losing it. Frantically started looking around, losing his cool again. Only once he stepped outside to the hot Spanish June afternoon, he noticed he wasn't wearing any shoes, the asphalt giving him a lot of information about the potential track temperature. Hot.

He didn't care. He had to find her, otherwise he was going back in and this time nobody would stop him.

Not her, not her, not her - wait, that was her! Standing safely far away from curious crowd that observed the scene and chatting it out, was Y/N and Oscar. Safe and sound, maybe a little too relaxed given the situation. Lando rushed to her, almost tripping over his own feet.

"Hey...I called you," he said, his own athleticism saving him from being unable to breathe.

She smiled when she saw him, like she always did. Innocent eyes and lush lips creating and angel-like picture. "Oh, did you? Sorry, I couldn't hear, there was so much noise everywhere," she said and gave him a little peck on his cheek before turning her attention to the McLaren building.

Lando was trying to look cool, not saying anything and tried to process his own reaction, maybe potentially overreaction - something, he'd never admit.

"We are recreating the scene from The Office," Oscar said, as if there weren't people around them running in panic. Lando just stared at him and his girlfriend, both standing in pure calmness and doing what could only be described as "vibing it out".

"I'm sorry?" he replied, not yet tuned into their wave-lenght.

"We were playing Desert Island while everyone was evacuating themselves," Oscar explained to Lando. Y/N laughed, but decided to change the topic when she saw how clueless her boyfriend looked.

"Never thought I'd date a millennial," she said out of the blue.

Lando was once again not comprehending, still coming down from his shock. "What?"

She giggled. "Look at your socks man. So low one would think it's 2014 again."

"Good year," Oscar said, sounding like he was 80 years old.

Only then Lando looked down now to truly fathom that he forgot to put his shoes on. He had to chuckle. He was used to adrenaline highs and lows, but apparently not as much as he though so.

"You ok?" Y/N asked, starting to become concerned when Lando did not follow up on their joke. She examined him and noticed the drops of stress sweat, his uneven breathing and eyes wide as the sun.

There was not much of a hesitation before he uttered the next sentence.

"I love you," he stated, no regrets or uncertainty. This was the first time either of them said this sentence. They were sort of tip toying around for few weeks now, but both of them feared it would freak the other one out. Not anymore, Lando had to get it out at that moment and nothing would stop him.

Now it was Y/N who was completely taken back, not expecting that. Funny how a fire did nothing to her reactions and this had her nearly melting. Melting with shock. No, it did not make sense to her either.

Lando was standing there, not expecting or demanding a reaction from her. He was coming to terms with his own realization, and stood there as proudly as someone who's not wearing any shoes can.

"Yes, it is true. I love you. You don't have to say anything, but I am more than sure now."

She bit her lower lip, unable to contain herself. "No, I want to say something. I love you too, more every day. So much it's getting scary."

Lando smiled, ear to ear, the events of the day passing him by. This was what mattered.

"This is so cool," Lando replied and went to kiss her on the cheek.

"Cool? That's your reaction?" she gasped, astonished and slightly amused.

"Yes, exactly that," he smiled once again, smitten over the moon.

The three of them stood there, Y/N and Lando watching each other, Oscar trying not to listen at first and observing the fire situation with new found interest. But it was nearly impossible.

"This is all very cute, but if you don't stop and leave this for when you're alone, I'm going to personally throw myself into the fire," he stated, teasing the fuck out of Lando.

"Have fun burning, mate!" Lando replied immediately and pulled Y/N into an unhinged hug.

Y/N never felt better in someone's embrace. "I love someone who's not even wearing shoes outside," she proclaimed after a moment. "Thank god mom's not here."

//

Lando Norris (driver 4) obeyed the evacuation procedure, followed directions and cooperated at full capacity. Due to the nature of the situation, the team decided to pull Lando out of the premise as quickly as possible, which resulted in him evacuating barefoot. No injury detected.

After several drafts, this was what Rick decided to go with, while icing his black eye.

[geeky-nightphilosopher]

Okay, okay. You all are probably ANNOYED about my Leverage posts- and I was on the fence about posting this one because I'm only on season 3. However, I just have SO many thoughts and I need to process them. So- here it goes;

*takes a deep breath*

Leverage is home. Like, I don't- I don't know to explain it. In another post I said the show was intoxicating and that's still true. But it's also- it's also home. Maybe I'm the only one, but when I watch it- I feel like I belong. Which is ridiculous. I'm not talented at all- but Leverage is almost like a security blanket. It's- it's safe and warm... it's home.

The only thing I can think of why it's home is because of them. Because they make it feel like home. They make feel safe and like your being cared for. Like your not alone. Even if you don't think your good at something- Leverage has your back. It gives you a sense of security. Which is weird because their criminals. But- like they said; Sometimes the bad guys are the only good guys you get.

I mean- you have Nate Ford who is always two to three spaces in front of the bad guy. Who sits there and listens to victims and gives them hope. Who talks to his team and bounces ideas off of them- instead of talking down to them. He's the kinda guy that watches from the background and sees all sorts of angles. Gets into the minds of both the victim and assailant. And if the con goes wrong- he has a second one ready to cover. Whose weakness is an empty bottle in an occupied barstool.

You have Sophie. A terrible actress whose good at acting. She can play any part. Be unseen- while being seen. Whose brave, kind, and gentle- but can kick butt when needed. She's not a damsel in distress- but she'll play the part. And the thing about that part is; it's so convincing- even she believes it too. Despite that- she's honest and sincere, she'll tell you what she thinks. Her heart is gold. Her trust is thin. She's like a snake- hypnotizing. Her weakness is the love she gave to a man who thinks too much and feels too little.

You have Eliot. A man that- if you just look at him- you'll just shrug him off. He's like any other brute. Big and brawny. And that's why you shouldn't ever judge a book by it's cover. He's so much more than that. Yes. He's brawn. A real southern charmer. But he has a brain and a heart. He's that big brother and gives you hugs and you can't help but melt into the security of that feeling. That feeling of safety that you just know has an ocean of anger underneath. But your not scared, you can't be scared. Not of him. He's the kinda guy you run towards- because you know he'll keep you safe. And yeah- maybe he'll use his brawn to keep you safe, but he'll also use his brain and his heart. He'll get you out of the situation in one piece with a grumble and a growl. His weakness is his kindness and that's why doesn't let it show.

You have Alec. The brainiac. The hacker- who isn't all that much to look at (compared to Eliot,) at least not at first glance. Yet, there's something about him that screams safe. Just as much as Eliot. He's outgoing and kind. Smart and funny. And the way that he's got everyone's back- even when it doesn't seem like it. He's your go to- to find any kind of internet mistakes and he's a good shoulder to cry on. He's that brother who is dorky, awkward, and nerdy- but he's honest and sincere. His weakness is not being able to be there when it really matters.

And- and you have Parker. The thief. The master thief- that didn't belong anywhere. Nimble and lean as she flips and slinks through vents. She's the little sister the family didn't know they even wanted. Until finally they realized she was what they needed. She's bright and cheerful despite how she grew up. Her life wasn't easy foster care and street living is a rough life- but she still believes in good things; Santa clause, Nate, Sophie, and Eliot. Most importantly she believed in Hardison. She was on her own until she was found and working with a team. Then she belonged to them. Everything she had done- was so that they knew she loved them. Her weakness is having the ability to not get caught.

To end this; Leverage is an amazing shoe- because it reminds us that no matter our background. No matter how many times we've messed up and haven't belonged- we are all human. It tells us that we will find our home, our tribe, our safety. That no matter our weakness- we'll always have somebody who can take our weakness and become our strength.

I'm only on season 3. I'll more than likely have more thoughts come by season 4/ season 5. (If you agree or disagree- don't hesitate to message me!

[pommunist]

It's just so discouranging that, with every statement Q makes, it ends up being worded in a way that ends up with the admins and ex-admins taking the blow and blame of everything. As much good intentions any statement has, the lack of aknowledgement for them (that as you said before, it CAN BE worded in a way that does not get him in trouble, the US law force is fucking horrible with inmigrants after all) can lead to these horrible results.

I am genuinely so sorry that anyone in this situation had their information leaked. Everyone deserves their privacy and not be at risk of the actions of dangerous people, it's common internet safety.

Now with that said, I will share an experience, that while I personally did not go through myself, the director of one of the big projects I participate in did, while I also read a lot of testimonies about it. This is to put some perspective for the ex-admins who are, rightfully so, upset for the abuse and mistreatment they went through.

In the animation community, there is a thing called Multi Animator Project, where a host (aka the director) makes a call for multiple animators to join in to animate designated parts of a project. This is non-profit, aka volunteer, work, that animators (specially beginners) take either to have fun work on the side of their actual jobs or to gain experience on the field and with working alongside a team + with deadlines involved. These projects should not go as hard as to exploit people and their time, since it's free labor they are doing for the sake of fun or for experience.

Except that one time it did. There was a big project of multiple of these videos directed by one person, in a way that they were expecting industry standard labor and high quality industry standard results (no, the normativity for Multi Animator Projects it's not this at all).

Several animators claimed not being aknowledged for their efforts at all, how they were kicked out without any warnings if they were not 'active enough' and that 'enough' never was specified, sometimes they were even kicked out of nowhere without any specified reason, and how the absolute short deadlines they received for high quality results + the pressure from the director's expectations greatly affected their stress and overall health. There were higher ups of the project sick of defending this director's actions while knowing full well that these working conditions for free volunteer labor were absolutely terrible and unacceptable, so they were some of the few to finally speak out.

Since then, the director has left the animation community field and everyone involved posted their unfinished work on their socials and went their own ways. Something yet to mention, this director was a young inexperienced person who made these incredibly awful demands and mistakes, and still received the consequences of these actions once the testimonies were out. Not in the form of legal consequences, but in the form of never being trusted by this community again.

Now, you might see why I brought this story up: No matter the field, if you're doing volunteer work or a straight up paid job, the bare minimum to expect is respect, the higher ups being mindful of your time and availability and aknowledgement of your efforts.

Nobody likes to be exploited, be from a big business or not, or be an experienced head of the project or not at all. Nobody likes to risk their mental and physical health, and their time, for a project that it's not supposed to demand much more out of you than it should be. And if you experience any of this kind of mistreatment, of course you will be upset, of course you will be angry and of course you would not trust the higher ups or the head of the project again.

It's a valid and more than fair point of view when you're the victim. When you're the one who have gone through this work abuse.

And both Q, the higher ups and this director can learn the error of their ways and do better in the future, for sure, they're still humans. But nobody expect every single person who worked under their names to trust them again or to be as forgiving as people could ask of them. It just makes sense.

Not gonna add anything to this anon, just publishing it because it’s a great example of how these kinds of wrongdoings can happen within any contexts and to anyone !

[karimwillia]

Part 10

Disclaimer: Riri in this has some social anxiety which causes her to run in certain situations. But she is growing.

Warnings: Plot

Days turn to a week having gone by and Riri is a wreck. She has chosen to keep her distance to try and clear her mind but it has gotten worse. Everyday her ig feed is a blaze with people saying how they were right and that Shuri just played her to have sex. All fake, all lies and if she has to deal with one more fake page hitting her up with “tea” she may scream.

MJ, Sharon and Mrs Williams have all talked to her and want to understand. The truth is Riri was not prepared for this part of it all even though she knows Shuri did not lie the stress of the bad attention was too much at once. She has to make a choice soon because she misses Shuri so much. They even spoke more as just friends than this. Fear has her stuck..

“Ri!” MJ runs up and taps her. Carrying a bouquet of her favorite flowers courtesy of an apologizing Shuri. She gets that and Starbucks everyday on top of her favorite lunch. Shuri just has to show her she still cares. But the talking and actually seeing her Riri refuses to do until she can pull herself together. “Thanks MJ they are gorgeous.” Taking the flowers she continues to class.

“Rihanna Robin Williams, when are you going to forgive this girl.” Riri smells one of the flowers. “MJ it’s not her it’s me. I thought I was confident but at the first sign of something I believed it. That’s not fair. How can I call myself dating her and I can’t handle everything that comes with it?”

MJ pulls her arm gently, stopping them in front of Shuri’s banner. “Ri you are a human being. No one is mad at you for reacting. The way you reacted did hurt. But all you have to do is apologize.” “MJ you’re right and she deserves one big time.” “Then what is stopping you?” “I'm embarrassed, overwhelmed and unsure. Why are they interested in me?.” “There is no answer to why you. The internet is full of people who just like to tear others down. It’s sad but it’s true. Everything else you have got to stop running when things get tough.” Riri pouts with a huff.

Just then a PA announcement comes through. “Attention Benedict High School Students and Staff, can you all report to the auditorium. Thank you.” The emergency assembly was out of place but all students and staff started to file into the auditorium. Principle Maverick is now at the front podium with his daughter Elena and Shuri sitting behind him.

“Good Morning Benedict it is with deep regret that I must address you this morning with a matter that disturbs me a great deal. A week ago it was brought to my attention that we are dealing with an issue of cyberbullying within the student body here at Benedict. Not only have there been slanderous and sexually suggestive content being posted about some of our most stellar students. There has been harassment of said student with a but not limited to a fake account created in my own daughter’s likeness. An investigation into the matter has been launched and any involved students will face disciplinary action. Here at Benedict the emotional and mental well-being of our students is of the utmost importance so this behavior will not be tolerated. At this time I have one of the targeted students who would like to make a statement.”

Shuri stands and graciously thanks Principle Maverick for his introduction. “Good Morning All. I want to first show my gratitude for the support of not only Principle Maverick but to Elena who is not even a student here for her support in this matter. This disheartening turn of events may have been targeted to me but it overall affected someone whom I care for deeply more severely. To that person I want you to know that I would do anything to ensure your safety and comfort as well as others. That is why my first endeavor with my new Name Image and Likeness deal I will be the face of Why Bully Me? A social and emotional wellness organization started by a powerful young 9 year old in Ohio to promote safe and bully free environments in schools and online across the nation starting right here at Benedict. Thank you all for your time.”

The assembly was dismissed and all Riri could see around her people scrambling for their phones to delete and disable the accounts and posts.

@somethingcleaverandwhitty @mal-urameshi @shuriris-stuff @dominiquesheart

[afuckingsystemsthoughts]

ik theres a lot of backlash from people about social media being bad and blah blah blah, but id like to provide a reality check for those people.

before social media, people didnt show as much empathy toward neurodivergent, mentally ill and traumatized people. they were seen as broken and needing to be fixed but unable to be fixed. ostracized. seen as crazy and like their feelings and wishes didnt matter. seen as "pitiful" and getting more of condescending treatment than real empathy. the only resource they had to share their voice was person-to-person in the flesh, and back before social media gained traction there was danger to that openness in-person. ridicule, fear and discrimination. this is why people have the "mentally ill or abused people arent open about it if theyre real mentally ill/abused" idea.

before social media, people with rare neurodivergence (intellectual disability, down syndrome, for example) couldnt really meet other people like them. sometimes the closest person with down syndrome was 30 minutes to an hour away from the other. these kids grew up around little to no people like them and in a time where they were dehumanized for having down syndrome. this led to the mass abuse of these kids and other kids with neurodivergence in the 20th century. because they were rare, had no way to band together and make their voice heard, they were seen as the stereotype and mistreated.

before social media, people with rare mental disorders couldnt meet each other outside of a mental health facility, they couldnt band together and make their voice heard. they were left to feel weird, broken and different. and depending on the rare mental disorder, they were made to feel evil, fear themselves and feel guilt for something that wasnt their fault and 8 out of 10 times doesnt make them dangerous to others. the stereotypes on them didnt help. they refused to be open out of guilt and fear of what people would think.

before social media, abuse survivors who were abused in rare, unique, or unconventional situations were ridiculed upon being open about their abuse. they were seen as crazy and like they were making it up, causing all abuse survivors who were open about abuse to have their credibility questioned even today. survivors of mind control and sex trafficking are prime examples. or men abused by women (which goes against societys view of who can abuse and who cant. this view that only men can abuse and only women can be victims existed before internet, maybe even before tv. its dated and false.) but with social media, these people had a safe space where they could hide their identities for safety and meet other people like them. they can feel valid knowing they arent the only ones. and they can raise awareness for all types of abuse, even the seemingly rare situations- they turned out to be more common than people thought.

before social media the silent groups never had a voice, they never had a way to speak for themselves and the people just like them. they never had a tool to fight back against stigma and dismantle societys harmful false stereotypes and ideas. they never had a way of knowing other people like them and that they werent alone, crazy, or broken. they never had a safe space where they could anonymously seek help when seeking help in-person or with their identity known would be dangerous. social media is a tool for good. it has so much positive potential and has been used for these purposes. it has saved lives.

just know every tool meant for good, or has good potential, is going to be used for bad, its going to be infiltrated. yes, theres people who use social media for bad purposes and it has costed lives. there are people who dont have the mentality to use social media because theyre self-centered and competitive, causing them to feel depressed or just bad about themselves in general when they dont get "enough" likes or followers. let me tell you this: there is no ideal amount of likes or followers. social media is not for attention. its for linking people together who otherwise without social media would not be able to make those important connections and interactions. mainly for ostracized stereotyped groups like neurodivergent people and the people with rare mental disorders who more than likely wont meet another person like them in the flesh, offline. however, i am a firm believer that social media isnt a total replacement for offfline in-person interaction- thats just as important and unless you cant socialize in-person because its dangerous for you (like if youre being abused) then dont replace it with social media. have an equal balance of social media and in-person interaction.

we have a tool to make the world better and dismantle societys harmful stereotypes, ideas and constructs. we, civilians, seemingly in no position of power, have all the power we need in our hand when we pick up a smartphone or turn on a tablet or a computer. lets use it for what its intended and make a better world for everyone. focus on the good and turn the lemons into lemonade. social media isnt bad, its how you use it. use it for good, make a change.

[philsmeatylegss]

Just remembered the Nth Rooms and it just makes me think about how me, who spent ages 10 to now with mostly unrestricted internet access and it led to a lot of my hobbies and positive traits, am so for parents monitoring their children’s internet activities until ages 13 to 15.

I was fortunate enough to encounter situations with adults as a young minor and knew how to properly handle the situation and not endanger myself (for the most part). Basics like not sharing your full name, pictures, address, etc. But it is so easy to manipulate someone of that age to do otherwise.

I’ve talked about this on my side blog, @ed-recoverry , but at age 13, I posted a “body check” (restrictive ED people know). To put it blunt, I was fully naked with just underwear and my nipples scribbled out. Once again, I had the brains to not put my face in, but there were identifying factors. About ten minutes later, an anonymous account tagged me. They had reposted that photo. I was fortunate to contact enough people where Instagram actually had to respond (reporting photos rarely did anything in 2016) and the post was taken down. But I often think about what if the account didn’t tag me, blocked me right after posting? There was a very real chance my nude 13 year old body with identifying features could have remained on Instagram till this day.

Thankfully this is the only dangerous situation I encountered on the internet, and obviously now at age 21 I see how moronically stupid it was to post myself, especially nude, but you just don’t think that.

I had multiple adults through one way or another try to talk to me with the intention, upon reflecting, of sending nudes or engaging in sexual stuff. Once again, I’m thankful to have had the awareness that I always blocked as soon as the person asked for pictures or my phone number, but that just is something to small for a child to remember to do.

On tiktok, I see so many, so many, (especially girls) post casually about being groomed and sending explicit photos of themselves at ages 10-14. Especially if you are vulnerable, if you are starting to deal with mental health issues like I was, you just don’t have the ability to think about the implications and possible outcomes.

This all happened 2013-2017 when iPhones were just a big question mark and no on really understood what was possible with it. It was a new concept of direct messaging a random kid halfway across the world on Twitter and asking for nudes. It’s a situation, at the time, no one really thought to warn kids about.

Obviously, I’m not in elementary and middle school now, but I hope so much that it’s been implemented into education internet safety, with explicit emphasis on not sharing personal information, sending photos, and not engaging in conversations with adults, no matter who they say they are.

I don’t plan on being a parent, but I just hope millennials and gen z who are having kids or had kids who are approaching ages 10-14 have multiple conversations about not only what not to do online, but also why they shouldn’t do it and if they ever encounter something, they should tell an adult. If you tell a kid just not to share their address, they don’t have the ability to infer that that is because someone could come to your house and harm you. That is something that needs to be spelled out.

And I just think, especially early on, that is something you can easily enforce with monitoring. Although, I also am a firm believer that monitoring should just be used to see if 1) they are talking to anyone 2) they are doing something illegal (usually not on purpose, stumbling upon something). I am a strong believer that teenagers deserve privacy on their phones. And if you taught internet safety, made it a habit to not engage with strangers, explaining what can happen, it just makes a child less likely to even engage with an adult. And if they do, they know what details not to share and when the discussion is dangerous.

I do think being unrestricted online very young had a lot of very positive impacts on me. I was starting to question why I didn’t have similar personalities or interests than my classmates. And going online helped me realize that I wasn’t alone. And hearing curse words and seeing kissing never caused any damage. That’s why, even though I’m a huge advocate for monitoring, I’m a huge advocate for only interfering if your child is in danger. I found porn for the first time because Tyler Oakley (?) referenced cake farts in a video and I thought haha farts are funny and I looked it up and it was a naked woman farting on a cake. It happens. As long as they don’t click on the “horny milfs near you,” it’s okay to leave it alone and never bring it up.

As I said, was just thinking about the Nth room and how many of the victims, mostly the minors, were contacted on Facebook or Twitter or other mainstream, often harmless apps. Apps where conversations can be quickly deleted. And when I see the stories of minor victims in that situation, I can easily envision 12 year old me falling for it.

I feel so lucky that the other 12 year old who was my first internet friend, shoutout to Katie, was a real twelve year old. We sent pics back and forth, bot those easily could have been faked. Or of someone else. There’s just so many situations I can think of being online as a kid that could have so easily ended awful if I made one different small choice.

The internet at an early age can be a gift and be a very positive thing if there are appropriate guidelines. I’m a huge defender that the internet and social media has more positives and negatives and a big believer in the benefits of being on social media and being exposed to the wider world. But I can’t deny the danger in it. This is so random and idk if anyone is reading this who has kids or plans to have kids, but when it comes to introducing them to phones and laptops, please heed the warning from philsmeatylegss

[parallelroutes]

For the 100 prompts meme thing - [one muse is oblivious to the other’s feelings for them]

[ ty for sending! i just didn't want to reblog the whole thing lmao. 1510 words ahaha... ]

---

Byakuran is always biased toward people who aren't afraid to challenge him, but this is absurd.

The sweets shops were only the beginning. Food tour, the shops, the attractions. Haru-chan has shown him around so many places in Namimori by now that he's sure more than half the population knows them. Them and their unlikely friendship… they're probably local celebrities by now.

Sometimes, Byakuran thinks about what he'd be able to show her too. There's a lot of places he's convinced she'd like, things he knows she'd love to do… but they're just friends. He can't. He's not even sure how he could return any of this sentiment in the first place without potentially causing discomfort. It's so weird caring about what someone thinks, but here he is.

Japanese culture has so many customs he's never experienced until now. He also never has cared what other people think of him. If he ever does bother, it's only because he's intending to stay in Namimori for a long time. If he leaves a bad impression, it'll be harder to interact with people who remember it. And especially for Haru-chan's sake - he wouldn't want to cause her any trouble by association.

But… deep down, that's not really the point.

In a country almost everyone seems happiest blending into a crowd, he stands out. Byakuran is himself and will never change that just to fit in. Him and his tattoo, his spiked collar, rips in his clothing, safety pins, then there's Haru-chan in everything and anything cute. The difference is incredible no matter how one looks at it.

Even then, she doesn't mind, doesn't judge him at all even when everyone else does. She actively enjoys spending time with him, enough to keep meeting him so much, and of course that's mutual.

Not that everything is mutual. Even if she likes him for him, it wouldn't go any further, would it?

'I want to be closer to Haru-chan.' Byakuran doesn't know what to do with that thought, but it's there. They see each other all the time so he doesn't need to miss her and her face, her voice, her energy, her bouncy steps, strong will, her— everything. It's very obviously a crush at minimum, but they're unlikely friends, nothing else.

Maybe he shouldn't project his own assumptions onto her, he knows, but he can't help it without knowing what it would be like if they went any other direction… even though he wishes it would. She already deals with so many people with romantic interest, he's sure, but nothing happens. It seems unlikely that would change, even if it's someone she knows well.

At the same time, why does he have no chance? Maybe there is one and he just doesn't believe it. Who knows? It might help to get it out anyway. He doesn't have anything to lose, does he? Or would she be uncomfortable knowing someone she meets all the time feels like this about her?

Hmm… then maybe it'll take some thought. The delivery matters if he wants the point to come across properly… but he doesn't have enough direct experience, even through all the lives he partially remembers. It might help to get some tips from someone who's been in this situation. Is there someone he knows that's been through this before? He'd rather not ask the internet for advice if he can help it, so… oh!

Gamma-kun was madly in love with Uni-chan's mother before, but nothing ever happened between them. Perfect. He'd have at least a few thoughts, whether he shares them with Byakuran or not.

Right now, he needs to finish the shopping trip. Gotta stand up, stretch, get out of his thoughts, toss the cup, somehow focus on making an outfit…

---

That night, he lounges on his bed with his phone and stares at his list of contacts, scrolling slowly through people who he doesn't see the point keeping in touch with. Gamma's not even in the G list, even though he distinctly remembers trading numbers before he moved. Where would he be, then… oh! The special characters section, probably. Yep, there's Gamma's Greek letter.

And yet, his finger still hovers over the phone icon. He's not sure he'll get an answer between the timezones and that Gamma would know who's calling, but… well, it's worth a try. Deep breath. Here goes nothing.

Huh. There's only two rings before the call is picked up. "Byakuran. What do you want?"

"Hey, Gamma-kun. Do you have a sec?"

"The Princess is busy. She'll answer her phone later." Gamma comes to an understandable but incorrect conclusion.

Byakuran chuckles. "Don't be like that. It's actually you I want to talk to."

"Then what is it?"

Can't start with the point, obviously. He has to give a little context first. "So you love Uni-chan, right?" He grins, knowing exactly how this will go over.

He can almost hear Gamma gritting his teeth. "Get that notion out of your head right now, Byakuran. Princess may be the boss's daughter, but it doesn't mean I'm in love with her the same way."

"That's what I want to ask about. You were in love with Aria in a romantic sense. Right?"

Gamma hesitates. "… Why do you want to know that? What is this about?"

Just for a moment, Byakuran hesitates too. "What was it like?"

Silence from the other end of the line. He didn't think very hard about what to ask before calling, did he?

He continues with a different question. "Did you ever tell her how you felt?"

"No." Gamma's answer is instant. "My loyalty is more important than my emotions."

"Everyone probably knew, though." Byakuran can't resist a little teasing to lighten his own mood at Gamma's expense.

"— So you called just to make fun of me?!" There we go.

"Don't be so hasty, Gamma-kun." Again, Byakuran laughs. It's amazing how much better he feels after messing with someone, especially in a situation like this. What he's opening up about is probably a less irritating topic now. "I'm calling because I think I'm in the same situation and need some advice."

Pause. "You're telling me you're in love." A blunt statement, not a question.

"Hey, don't say it so loud. I don't want anyone else to know."

Gamma seems to have relaxed after the switch in topic. "I'm not the one to ask for this kind of advice. I have no interest in dating. I never have and I never will."

Did he expect Byakuran to listen? "You still know what it's like, don't you? Wasn't it hard to spend time with someone you love so much knowing there will never be anything else? Didn't it bother you?"

"Look." A loud sigh. "You treasure what you do have. If they'll never love you, then don't push it. But, if you really want things to change, then accept you don't know what it'll turn into."

Byakuran can't help but laugh. He doubts he'd want to hear it normally, but it's an important point. "See? That's pretty good advice from who has no interest in dating."

"That's exactly what you asked for!" Gamma's not shouting now, but if they were in person, he sure would be.

Back to the point. "So what I'm hearing is that I should accept the risks if I do say it. Any other thoughts, Gamma-kun?"

After Gamma takes a moment to breathe, he answers lowly. "If you're telling someone you're in love with them, you have to take it seriously. That's all I can say." He's gotten so much better at calming his temper over the past few years.

"Noted." ♪

"Was that it? I have to get back to the Princess." Sounds like someone's ready to hang up the phone.

"Yup. I really owe you one now." Byakuran still feels lighter now, and he's sure it sounds like it in his voice too. "I'll let you go. Tell Uni-chan I said hi."

"Fine." Gamma grumbles. "… Good luck."

"Thanks, Gamma-kun. It'll be fine." He didn't expect the encouragement, but it's appreciated. "Seeya." ♪

"Bye." Click. And that's that.

He lets the phone drop face-down on the bed. It's surprising how easy it was to clear his head in a phone call lasting under five minutes. An outside perspective is really beneficial in times like these… even though he still doesn't know how to say it.

Gamma never told Aria, so who does he ask for tips? The internet? The only one of his Wreaths he can trust with this kind of thing is Kikyo, but he knows the others will overhear. So…

Or… maybe the best idea is to confess it his own way. No thinking, only acting, everything done on a whim. It won't be genuine otherwise. Gamma-kun's right that he needs to take it seriously, but his definition of 'serious' is completely different. It's okay, though, Haru-chan probably understands that by now.

Hmm… he has to wonder if she'll understand these feelings too. Who knows?

Anyway, where are they going tomorrow again? If it's not out in the open, he doesn't have to be tactful with timing… oh, she said it would be a surprise. Guess she'll get a surprise too.

… ♪

[siriuslyremus]

Hey, so you’re thinking about coming out?

Here’s a list of things I wish I knew before coming out!

(Note: if there is ANYTHING you would like to add to this list plz plz plz do so in the notes!! this post is intended to help ALL in need and several perspectives can make a huge difference!!!)

Okay, so there’s one extremely important tip that I want to share first:

ONLY COME OUT WHEN YOU ARE READY

unfortunately, many lgbtqia+ members are outed before they are ready. if you have the opportunity to come out when you choose, take advantage of it.

ok now to the list :)

There’s never going to be a “perfect time” to come out. It just doesn’t exist. Do it when you feel ready.

It’s gonna feel a little funky at first! Definitely if you have been closeted for quite a while! It’s going to be an adjustment! It’s nothing to fear just something to be aware of.

If having a “complex” identity is holding you back from coming out, the internet is your best friend! Read up on some articles about it and let the person you’re coming out to read it! I know it can be really difficult and a lot to explain to someone who isn’t familiar with your identity, (that’s why there are so many online resources!)

^ On that note, if the person you’re coming out too isn’t the type to read that much, I suggest coming out to a friend that is more understanding first and come out together! They can help explain if it gets too overwhelming!

And yeah, it might be really overwhelming at the beginning. But it is also going to be so so wonderful. It will only open you up to more and bigger opportunities and help shape the person you’re becoming!

Coming out is not a one time thing! You are going to meet new people and have new experiences where you want to come out again. Each time will get easier and your confidence will grow, trust me.

Lastly, you do not owe anyone the process of coming out. If they won’t respect you, it isn’t worth your time, I promise you that.

^^ Do it for YOU! This is YOUR experience!!

Note: if you are in a dangerous or harmful situation where coming out would risk your safety, it might not be the best idea to do it. please make smart choices and keep pushing through. you WILL find people that will accept you for who you are in the future no matter the situation you are in now.

Love you all <3 Sorry this is kinda late past pride month haha!

- Fin 🫶

[alasse-earfalas]

Love Your Enemies

This is a phrase I have heard many, many times. It comes from Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, and the entire passage can be found in Matthew 5:43-47 if you would like to read it for greater context.

I want to talk about this because I'm seeing a lot of hatred tossed around on this site (and on the internet in general), paraded like it's a good thing because, "they're the bad guys; we're supposed to hate them".

No. No, we're not.

First, let's quickly go over what an "enemy" is. Fundamentally, anyone with whom you are in opposition, or with whom you consider yourself to be in opposition, is an enemy. Whether that's over something as trivial as fandom shipping or something as serious as abuse and genocide, if you are (or see yourself as) in opposition to another person or group of people, then that person or group is your enemy.

I want to focus on the more serious matters here because that's where I'm seeing a lot of the hatred. The justification seems to be: "they hate us, they hurt us, they do terrible things to us and make our lives a living hell, so it's only fair that we hate them in return".

No. It's not.

What does it help (other than one's pride) to hate someone else? To wish harm on them, whether actively or passive-aggressively? It does nothing but destroy further. It perpetuates the very injustices you are supposedly fighting against, and it eats away at your soul like fire. Hatred does not help anyone. If you are going to fight against hatred, you must do so with love.

What does it mean, then, to love your enemies?

It means to recognize that, like you, your enemies are human. Every single one of us has a background, every single one of us has beliefs on issues and reasons for those beliefs, and every one of us does bad things and makes mistakes for various reasons. We all have toxic mindsets and behaviors, we all have worldviews that clash, we all do things that we look back on and are ashamed.

In other words: it is to have compassion on those who have not had compassion on us.

This does not mean that you should call up someone who is actively abusing you and invite them over for tea and a nice chat. I've had to cut people out of my life for my own safety, and I've had to be firm about it. Nor does it mean that anyone is justified for atrocities they commit because they come from a rough background. Being abused, hated, or oppressed by someone does not give you license to abuse, hate, or oppress them in return, nor to do so to anyone else. In fact, this is exactly how the cycle of abuse perpetuates: a victim of hatred, abuse, or oppression feels the injustice of what was done to them, lashes out against it in anger, and thus inflicts their own hatred, abuse, and oppression on those they target. They become the very thing that caused them so much pain.

You can say, "I don't agree with you; I think what you're doing is horrendous and appalling and totally unjust; but I understand that you're human, too, and that there is some reason why you're choosing to do these things. It may be the most twisted and disgusting reason possible, but adding my hatred to the situation isn't going to make anything better." And that is the key: you don't need to add your own anger to an already hostile situation.

Anger, as an emotion, is meant to establish and enforce boundaries, but can quickly spiral into a cutting offense rather than a protective defense. This is when anger becomes destructive and often turns into hatred, abuse, and oppression. If you must express or vent your anger, do so against something safe and inanimate: a pillow, a notebook, a punching bag, a blank text document. Be careful about venting verbally to others and only do so with their express permission.

You cannot effectively fight hatred by giving into it yourself. You must fight it by rising above it. Love your enemies, even if that love has to be from a distance. Don't perpetuate the cycle of hatred and abuse by allowing your own anger and pain to turn you into what caused you that pain to begin with.

[traumasurvivorshelpingsurvivors]

tw: sexual assault, controlling abusive behaviour, mental health issues, fat fetish

im 25, gay, and i live with my boyfriend who is a good bit older than me. we met on the internet when i was in low place during the pandemic and I was wanting some form of affection. I moved in with him about a year ago not long after losing my mother. I am also very fat, I always have been, and hes fit I knew going into it that he had a fetish for my weight i just wanted affection but since living with him it's gotten more intense and he says he doesnt 'want' me to get bigger but he likes my weight and he knows i obviously have problems with food anyway so he says he likes giving me what i want. he weighs me and measures me every week and i have to do it tomorrow. I never look at it he says he does it to make sure im not getting bigger. but im not an idiot. And i have to be naked when hes here I hate myself so much and i hate having to look at myself like this 24/7. I have no friends at all and I'm so isolated, hes the only person i really interact with apart from my therapist who he takes me to, I depend on him for so much and he controls my whole lifefor his own pleasure i have to go along with it no matter what. he knows everything about me he knows all my trauma from a past relationship like this where it was even worse, he infantalises me and keeps my money i have to ask him for things. i dont feel okay i feel like a zombie, im so confused and sad i dont know what to do. I dont have anywhere to go and i dont want to live like this. I know i should tell my therapist more about my relationship but im ashamed to say it and i dont even know if she can help me i feel like theres nothing i can do. I had a bad day and im so lonely

Oh the sexual assault tag was because he has had sex with me multiple times in my sleep even though i have told him i dont like it. he tells me it's not a big deal and that i like it. He knows i was r word in my late teensand i tell him thats why i dont like it i have cptsd from my first relationship and he says it's not the same thing. I just want advice on what i could do

Hi anon,

I'm so sorry about what you've been going through. Please know that there's no need to feel ashamed, just as other survivors have nothing to be ashamed of. It's not your fault at all.

It sounds like your partner may have preyed on you during your low point in the pandemic and is taking advantage of you in several ways. It's controlling of him to demand you constantly weigh yourself and you deserve the right to say no. You also deserve the right to wear clothes around him if you want to. Isolation is also a key feature of abuse. It sounds like there may also be some financial abuse going on as well, with him in control of your money. I can definitely see how these things make you feel infantilized.

Please know that it can be considered rape to have sex with someone who is asleep because they are incapable of providing consent (unless it was agreed to prior, but that doesn't seem to be the case here). Especially knowing your history, he should respect that. While it may not be the exact same situation that you experienced previously, it's still not okay and you deserve better.

A therapist may not be able to directly help you leave this situation, though they can definitely provide emotional support much better than us. If it is safe to do so, I recommend looking into some local crisis resources. I'm not sure where you're located, but this is a super helpful resource regarding abusive relationships. They have ways to reach out, as well as forming a safety plan.

If anyone else has any comments or suggestions, feel free to add on. Otherwise, hope I could help. Please let us know if you need anything.

-Bun

[techtired]

The Benefits and Security of a Free VPN

In the ever-evolving world of technology, where digital boundaries are constantly shifting, the need to protect our online presence has never been greater. As technology advances, so does the sophistication of cyber threats, surveillance tactics, and data exploitation methods. In this climate, maintaining digital privacy and security is critical, not just for tech-savvy individuals but for everyone. One solution that has gained widespread attention is the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). While premium VPN services offer an array of advanced features, the accessibility and benefits of free VPNs are increasingly appealing, especially for those seeking enhanced security without the associated cost. But can a free VPN really deliver the level of protection you need in today’s fast-paced digital world? Why Free VPNs Matter in Today's Technological Landscape In a world where nearly everything we do is digitized—be it social interactions, professional transactions, or accessing entertainment—our online footprints are larger than ever. This expanded digital presence leaves us vulnerable to various cyber threats. The need for online privacy, data security, and the ability to access content freely without geographical restrictions has made VPNs a crucial tool for internet users. Free VPNs, though often less feature-rich than their premium counterparts, provide significant benefits for users who want basic protection. They can serve as a valuable stepping stone into the world of online security, especially for those who are budget-conscious or simply beginning their journey toward safeguarding their digital life. Insights from FreeVPNmentor: A Trusted Source for VPN Reviews When selecting a VPN, it’s essential to rely on trusted sources for expert reviews and comparisons. Websites like FreeVPNmentor offer in-depth evaluations of various VPNs, including free options. They guide users toward VPNs that provide essential security features, solid privacy protections, and reliable performance. One common misconception is that free VPNs compromise too much on security. Still, in reality, many free VPNs offer strong encryption, data protection, and IP masking features that are more than sufficient for the average user. FreeVPNmentor is a valuable resource for identifying which free VPNs deliver high-quality service without the hidden costs or security risks sometimes associated with free software. The Security Benefits of a Free VPN A free VPN provides several important security advantages. Here are some of the key ways that using a VPN—whether free or premium—can enhance your online safety: - Data Encryption: Free VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers, advertisers, or even government surveillance programs to monitor your activity. Encryption ensures that even if your data is intercepted, it remains unreadable without the decryption key. - IP Address Masking: By masking your real IP address and replacing it with one from a VPN server, a free VPN helps you maintain anonymity online. Websites, ad trackers, and malicious entities can no longer track your real location or identity, enhancing your privacy significantly. - Protectionofn Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports, or hotels, are often unsecured and vulnerable to cyberattacks. Free VPNs help secure your connection in these environments by encrypting your data, making it difficult for cybercriminals to steal sensitive information like login credentials or credit card details. According to cybersecurity reports from 2023, nearly 60% of internet users have experienced some form of cyber threat while browsing, with a significant number of these incidents occurring over public Wi-Fi networks. In these situations, a free VPN acts as a protective barrier between you and potential data thieves. Global Accessibility and Unrestricted Content with Free VPNs A key advantage of using any VPN, including a free one, is the ability to bypass geographical restrictions. Governments, organizations, and streaming services often restrict content based on the user’s geographic location. With a VPN, users can route their internet connection through a server in another country, effectively "tricking" websites into thinking they are accessing the internet from a different region. This feature is particularly useful for streaming services like Netflix, where certain shows or movies are only available in specific countries. For instance, you might be in the UK but wish to access U.S.-based Netflix content. With a free VPN, you can switch your server location to the U.S. and enjoy that restricted content without any issues. A 2023 survey found that over 50% of VPN users primarily use the service to access region-blocked content. Free VPNs offer this capability without the need for a subscription, making them a cost-effective solution for global content access. The Limitations of Free VPNs: What to Consider While free VPNs offer notable benefits, it's important to understand their limitations so you can make an informed choice. Common drawbacks of free VPN services include: - Data Caps: Many free VPNs impose data usage limits, which can range from a few hundred MBs to several GBs per month. For users who primarily browse and stream content, these caps may be restrictive. - Limited Server Availability: Free VPNs often have fewer server options compared to their premium counterparts. This can result in slower speeds due to server congestion or a lack of availability in certain regions. - Slower Connection Speeds: Since free VPNs typically offer limited bandwidth and server options, users may experience slower internet speeds, particularly during peak hours. It’s also important to be cautious when selecting a free VPN. Some free VPN services have been known to log user data, display intrusive ads, or even contain malware. Always research VPN providers thoroughly and rely on expert reviews, such as those from FreeVPNmentor, to ensure you choose a reputable service. Mobile Security: A Crucial Benefit for iOS and Android Users In today’s mobile-first world, protecting your smartphone is just as important as securing your computer. Free VPNs designed for iOS and Android can provide the same level of protection for mobile users. Whether you’re connecting to public Wi-Fi or simply browsing the web, a free VPN can encrypt your mobile traffic and keep your sensitive data safe from prying eyes. Mobile VPNs are especially valuable for users who handle sensitive work-related tasks or make financial transactions via their smartphones. The convenience of a free VPN on mobile ensures that you stay secure without needing to invest in a paid service. Expert Opinions: Why Research Matters Given the variety of free VPN services available, it's important to conduct thorough research before committing to one. Some free VPNs may lack crucial security features or have hidden pitfalls that could compromise your online safety. Trusted resources like FreeVPNmentor play a critical role in helping users navigate this space by providing detailed reviews, comparisons, and expert opinions. For example, while some free VPNs offer solid encryption and privacy features, others may track and sell user data to third-party advertisers. Knowing which VPNs uphold their privacy promises can make all the difference in maintaining your security online. Conclusion:  As we continue to navigate the rapidly changing world of technology, the importance of safeguarding our digital lives has never been clearer. Free VPNs offer an accessible entry point for individuals looking to enhance their online privacy, security, and access to content. While free VPNs may come with some limitations, they still provide crucial benefits such as data encryption, IP masking, and protection on unsecured networks. In a world where online privacy is increasingly threatened, taking control of your digital security is a must. Consulting expert resources like FreeVPNmentor and selecting a reputable free VPN service is an essential first step in protecting your online presence without breaking the bank. Ultimately, whether you’re a casual internet user or someone deeply invested in online security, a free VPN can provide the foundation you need to stay safe, private, and informed in today’s fast-paced digital world. Read the full article

[enercomnetworksllc]

Understanding the Role of Effective Communication in Oilfields

Did you know that Midland produced 18,086,113 barrels of oil and 67,068,346 Mcf of natural gas in May 2023? (https://www.rrc.texas.gov/news/081723-texas-oil-and-gas-production-statistics-for-may-2023/) Yes, you read it right! When it comes to oilfields, maintaining connectivity and communications is crucial to ensure smooth and safe operations. However, owing to the presence of these sites amidst the rugged terrains and in remote areas, communication often becomes challenging. That is why the industry relies on cell service boosting and remote internet service in Midland Texas.

Are you still wondering why efficient and effective oilfield communications matter so much? Read on to explore everything in detail!

#1 Operational Efficiency

Working in the remote and dangerous oilfields isn’t an easy task. The lack of proper communication may result in confusion and misunderstandings among the team members and affect overall operations. That is why effective communication is crucial. It ensures that all the team members are in sync, lowering downtime significantly and ensuring operational flow. Open and continuous communication can also enable you to identify potential issues at the oil drilling sites and find ways to resolve them in the best possible way. Moreover, clearly communicating instructions and sharing feedback becomes easy.  All these aspects can help maintain optimal workflow and meet project timelines.

#2 Greater Safety

There is no denying of the fact that the offshore oilfield operations take place in hazardous environments. Prompt and clear communication is essential to respond to emergencies and mitigate hazards. Moreover, it can provide you with regular updates relating to potential hazards, thereby lowering risks and preventing accidents. Also, adhering to the emerging safety protocols in the oilfields becomes simple.

#3 Better Collaboration

While oilfield activities take place offshore, most of the team members are present onshore. In such a situation, working in a collaborative manner can be tough. However, with effective communication, the staff can conveniently share critical information relating to equipment, processes, and changes in the plan. Moreover, you can also communicate about the potential production challenges to the management and avail of appropriate solutions to address them. It ensures that everyone in the team stays on the same page. As a result, you can expect efficient operations and enhanced productivity.

#4 Regulatory Compliance

The oil and gas industry has to comply with several legal and industry standards. Non-compliance can result in hefty penalties. Proper communication can ensure that all the regulatory requirements are met. Moreover, it also allows for effective record-keeping and facilitates smoother inspections and audits.

Conclusion

With ever-changing regulations and dispersed staff, the ability to deliver up-to-date information on time has become crucial for oilfields. That is why seamless communication matters a lot. For effective communication, availing of the right services is the need of the hour. Are you looking for remote internet service or cell service boosting in Eagle Ford? If yes, Enercom Networks LLC can be your one-stop destination. They have been in the industry for years and are committed to delivering custom solutions to address your problems. Reach out to professional experts, share your unique needs, and get top-notch solutions at competitive prices.

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AUTUMN PART 2 (8)

After Dad broke up with Donna I didn’t hear from him in a long time so I thought it was possible that the police may have done something about it and I just didn’t know about it.

                More than a year passed when I was walking in Westfield and I walked past Samuel’s girlfriend who was pushing a pram. I was shocked at first and when I looked into the pram there was a baby inside. Doing basic maths, I realised this couldn’t have possibly have been the same baby that she had been pregnant with when Sharon and I had seen her that day on Australia Day. When I saw her pushing the pram in Westfield I only saw her for a couple of seconds but the baby looked young enough. Common sense told me that Samuel was probably the father; however, I knew she had previously had babies with several different men previously so I couldn’t be sure. Samuel wasn’t with her when I saw her that day, she was with a woman who I didn’t know (I didn’t really know Samuel’s girlfriend that well). I contacted Sharon and she was concerned like I was so I wrote on my Facebook how frustrated I was with the matter and that the police didn’t seem to be doing anything about it (to my knowledge). I wrote that I had already contacted the police and told them everything I knew but she had just had another baby and I think it might be his. My cousin loves children and works with them so she told me to contact DOCs. I don’t know what DOCs was and I didn’t know anything about DOCs but I decided it might be a good idea. I sent them an email and gave them all the information I knew but told them I have no evidence but gave them names and details of the people who knew what I knew. I pretty much told them the same as what I had already told the police. I sent it to them but it wasn’t long after that they replied and told me that I sent it to the wrong email address. So I sent it back and asked them if they could send it to the right location as this is about a matter concerning children’s safety and I do not know what the right address to send this information to. I sent it and they didn’t reply and I hoped they had forwarded to the right location.

                I just felt like I was doing everything in vain and I felt so powerless. I just felt with all the people who knew about Samuel and all those who had their suspicions should have gone forward to the police about it. If someone else had contacted the police and backed up this information with what they knew or witnessed it would have given strength to the situation.

                I don’t know if anything has happened to Samuel as I do not have any contact with Donna or Autumn and I haven’t seen Samuel or his girlfriend in years and I believe they have most likely moved away or perhaps he is in prison. If he hasn’t gone to prison yet, I do believe there is a possibility he will in the future, it will happen when it is too late when it could have been stopped years ago when I had first contacted the police (or when other people who knew about it should have contacted the police). The damage might have already been done and those kids could have their entire lives destroyed before they even become adults. I just hope someone who knows something will go to the police and do something about it. I don’t understand why all these people are turning a blind eye to it. If anything happens I have the gut feeling that it will be one of the children who will expose him. I don’t know where Samuel is living now but he has an extremely common name and it would be difficult to find his location on the internet and you can’t find him online (he doesn’t use Facebook). I don’t know his girlfriend’s name but I think her name was common as well. I don’t know the names of her two children she had living with her.

                A few years after I stopped being friends with Autumn I was having dinner with some family members and my cousin was talking about Autumn and she asked me about Samuel, “What is Samuel doing now? I imagine he’s just sitting around the house like a big fat slob and has a woman doing everything for him.” And I told her about Samuel and his interest in children. She told me at the Christmas family gatherings when us kids would be swimming in the pool that Samuel would go up to her and touch her all the time. She told me he was even creepy back then.