Report Inappropriate Comments

RC, for what is probably the 5th time: Cat Hayes. That is my social media account information. You can reach me there if you ever need to. I don't make myself public for safety reasons. I have every reason to be careful with my identity. I have had my friends stalked, harassed and men show up at their place of work because they found information online about them. You will never, EVER live in a world where you have to be careful every single moment of the day.

A girl was riding on a train home and a young man struck up a conversation with her. As far as she was concerned, the encounter was over as soon as she exited the train. Unfortunately, the young man didn't agree so he went on Facebook and Instagram to locate her. A quick search found her account so he messaged one of her friends (followers) who gave him her phone number. He stalked her relentlessly for months online and by phone. She was terrified he would follow her home and find out where she lived. All because she had her accounts public. The police had to get involved and she had to get a restraining order against a complete stranger so he would leave her alone. Has that ever happened to you? Are you afraid to have a casual conversation with someone?

My friend works in a banquet hall. She was serving and 4 guys at the bar tried to flirt with her. She was polite but firm that she was working. They wouldn't take no for an answer. She had to get her manager to walk her out because she was afraid they would be outside waiting . Guess who was outside? Two guys in the front and two guys in the back. They tried to get coworkers to give out her private information. One of them told them her last name. Do you know how ridiculously easy it is to search for people on the internet once you have first and last name? She had to block everything, close out all social media and they installed lights and cameras in the parking lot for her safety. Has that every happened to you? Are you afraid to walk out of work at night alone?

I once had a client that mistook my smile and laughter while I was printing out an invoice as out as showing my interest in him. He wasn't pleasant when I told him I was merely being polite and didn't wish to pursue a relationship. I was simply doing what is required in my job description and it was misinterpreted as flirting! All my contact information was on my business card. He emailed me a few days later to let me know he didn't appreciate me leading him on. He left a negative review on yelp and google because I didn't want to date him. He also called me until I had to block the number. Now my business card has no personal (private information), only an email and phone number specifically for work purposes. Nothing that will lead anyone back to me in my private life. Has that every happened to you? Do you have to have two sets of accounts for safety?

You just don't get it. You are totally ignorant to what is at stake. This will never be your normal. My safety means way more to me than an insult from you about being a coward. You want to call me a coward? Go right ahead Richard. I will smile every time I see it.

p.s. I don't need you to know where I live and what I do with my day to be considered valid. I already am valid. I don't need you to confirm it.