So Forum Names = @username displayed on all our Characters names.

[Loekii]

I had thought that we would be able to select a @Displayname for the game, but that is not the case. It is your forum name. For example:

SuperTed@Loekii
Mysterion@Tamgros



So every toon you create, either in CO or STO, will display your forum name.

Short of creating a brand new account, there is no way to change this I have been told by Cryptic. :(

I think this is a bad system, especially as we were never told that our forum names would be tied into the game and displayed on our ALL our characters.

So those that started with CO, and picked a 'superhero' forum name, are stuck with their superhero tag in STO as well. Those that picked a cheesy forum name, are stuck with it. Those that simply do not want their forum persona's and their toon persona's tied together, are out of luck.

In the name of customer service, I would like to see some better options.

I would like to see an 'Alias' option added in, where you can present a different @displayname tag for your Toons, rather than marking them directly to your Forum name. Is should be like this, imo:

ACCOUNT/FORUM NAME = Loekii

Alias @DisplayName = @Farpoint_Outpost


Character name = Zantril


Name displayed in game =
Zantril@Farpoint_Outpost



Thus, your Account name and your Forum name are not displayed 'In-Game', and is not tied to your Toons.

[Commander_Nate]

Are we sure this is how it's going to be? I thought this was still mostly speculation.

[Roy_Vash]

Or would the name that is actually displayed be merely: Zantril?

[Vuk]

Cryptic for all that is holy , please find another system. :(

[1MGSIX]

Oh gosh please say that it isn't true.

[Admiral-Darren-Wright]

Yes i heard this as well a month or so ago, but those people on the forums a long time will get the benefits from it, such as the Special Envoy title etc in game because of there foruming contributions.

[OddjobXL]

I also like the idea of accountability. "Oh, it's /that/ guy." So folks who get themselves a reputation on the forums can't just skate by in-game. I've seen that happen before too many times.

[Admiral-Darren-Wright]

In a way it kind of helps to regulate the forums ..

like a way of self policing, Crypic have enough to do without constant mediating etc.

[Tristan_Kalm]

The shat can see the problem with this.

So if I'm playing a character in Champions Online, and that character's name is Tristan Kalm, then:

Tristan Kalm@Tristan_Kalm...a forum name I might have for both CO and STO.

But what if my forum name on CO is different than the one on STO?

[Loekii]

Are we sure this is how it's going to be? I thought this was still mostly speculation.

When I asked in the irc chat, I was told this is how the system works for CO and that is all he knew about -- not as in he could not say more, but more as in this is how the system will work as far as he knew.

Or would the name that is actually displayed be merely: Zantril?

In CO is is like this:

Name above Players Head = Zantril
Name appearing in Chat window = Zantril@Loekii
When inspecting a Character = @Loekii is displayed at bottom of display window

[spskeff2]

I agree that this needs to change if that's the way it works. At least allow folks to change their login or have an in-game display alias option...

[Varrangian]

While it is not my favorite system I don't think it has had a negative effect on CO.

[Admiral-Darren-Wright]

The shat can see the problem with this.

So if I'm playing a character in Champions Online, and that character's name is Tristan Kalm, then:

Tristan Kalm@Tristan_Kalm...a forum name I might have for both CO and STO.

But what if my forum name on CO is different than the one on STO?
Love the look on Shats face in your avater lol

Has Sulu just said hello or something lol

[Tristan_Kalm]

Love the look on Shats face in your avater lol

Has Sulu just said hello or something lol

LOL it's just one of the random Shatner icons I found over google that's exactly 100 x 100 pixels.

I was going to edit the picture and put the words "You Played WoW!!??" on it because I thought it matched his expression, but the KB size went over 19.5 and the forum doesn't except any higher than that.

[Loekii]

While it is not my favorite system I don't think it has had a negative effect on CO.

I disagree, simple because this is a personal choice, rather than something that can be 'measured'. It might not bother one person, but greatly bother another, for various reasons.

[Peregrine_Falcon]

I also like the idea of accountability. "Oh, it's /that/ guy." So folks who get themselves a reputation on the forums can't just skate by in-game. I've seen that happen before too many times.
I also like this idea.

The biggest problem that the internet in general has, and forums and MMOs specifically, is that anonymity makes people feel empowered to act like total griefing jacktards.

With this system if you become known as a total griefing jacktard, either in game or on the forums, people will know about it and probably decide not to team with you.

That's bad again how? Oh yeah. That's bad if you want to be a griefing jacktard! For the rest of us it will literally be no problem whatsoever.

[Varrangian]

I disagree, simple because this is a personal choice, rather than something that can be 'measured'. It might not bother one person, but greatly bother another, for various reasons.


I didn't say it doesn't bother people. I'm saying from a gameplay stand point it has had no impact.

[Tristan_Kalm]

Gah...I just realized the forums on CO are linked with the forums on STO.

I had no idea since I had never posted or really visited the forums on the CO website.

I guess people with bad reputations on either forum are no longer going to be able to hide behind in game characters anymore and continue their disruptive behavior.

The shat can see this as beneficial.

[Loekii]

I also like the idea of accountability. "Oh, it's /that/ guy." So folks who get themselves a reputation on the forums can't just skate by in-game. I've seen that happen before too many times.

However you punish the rest of us. And I don't think this was the motivation of cryptic. And why should the majority get 'punished'?

I do not want my toons associated with my forum persona, let alone for some people its their account name as well.

I was very surprised that Cryptic failed to consider this, and did not simply put in a 'Choose your @Displayname' when you create an account for their games.

[CrazyVulcan]

hmmmm personaly i have no problem with this it actually is a relife that noone can steal my forum name a creat havoc, there have been problems with people impersonating forum people outside of the STO forum

this system makes that impossable so i am relived good job cryptic

[Kyias]

I do not see the major issue of this to be honest.

Could someone explain what about this system bothers them? I can understand the chat function showing forum name as an immersion breaker (and I agree with) but what other than that is such a problem? It seems like it adds accountability.

[Xenoshaft]

SO this is how they are accomplishing the unique name issue.

Fine. I don’t see an issue. you wont see Xenoshaft@Xenoshaft on any other person. I might see a Xenoshaft@imposter_guy but people will know its not me.

Also i do think this adds some accountability. People cant be little jerks any more becasue all of their players and all of their fourms are coonected and out for EVERYONE to see. People used to be jerks and get away with it because its nearly anonymous.. Now it seems that this will also keep people from taking someones name to be mean. IE you get in to a fight with a guy named Meandudeonline... and you tell im off for being a little jerk- so becasue names are not limited he makes his name (put your name here) or even worse (put your name here + Smells like pee) and starts taking mad crap to everyone trying to get a bad name for you. That is stopped with this plan., Plus any kind of herassment is lowered. :eek:

Now if they could just do this with driving cars!!!! (you don’t see people cutting you off in a long line at the movies- they'd get punched out)


so for all you nay sayers out there consider the good parts- I do see the bad side. but I dont think its a bad system..

[CrazyVulcan]

SO this is how they are accomplishing the unique name issue.

Fine. I don’t see an issue. you wont see Xenoshaft@Xenoshaft on any other person. I might see a Xenoshaft@imposter_guy but people will know its not me.

Also i do think this adds some accountability. People cant be little jerks because its nearly anonymous..

Now if they could just do this with driving cars!!!! (you don’t see people cutting you off in a long line at the movies- they'd get punched out)


so for all you nay sayers out there consider the good parts- I do see the bad side. but I dont think its a bad system..

i agree now i can rest esay about someone takeing my name

[Zepath]

I have been complaining about this since the day I heard this is how its going to be implemented.

Its dumb dumb dumb. All in the name of people too damned lazy to come up with unique names.

Its not going to stop people from being jacktards ... while it may curb some people, it will encourage just as many to make a reputation for themselves ... and it will cause conflict in the game for crap that should be isolated to the forums.

The one that annoys the crap out of me more than anything else is the lost of my ability to log out of the game and get away from my friends and family when I want to play alone on an alt .... in every game I play I have those 2 or 3 characters I don't tell anyone about because I just want to get away from my guild, or my friend/family. Now that is constantly in jeopardy.

Its just a stupid stupid system. If they really want to allow people to have the same name (which in itself is just dumb to me), then let them come up with their own unique suffix per character. That way I still actually belong to more than one guild and not have to worry about one of both of them getting ****ed off ... and I can play the game when I have the need without my brother in law being able to chase me down and constantly bothering me.

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

[spskeff2]

I do not see the major issue of this to be honest.

Could someone explain what about this system bothers them? I can understand the chat function showing forum name as an immersion breaker (and I agree with) but what other than that is such a problem? It seems like it adds accountability.

True. I can see the plus there. I just always expect a simple name for my char and my Ship...not @ symbology in a display name...it's just out of place for such polished games ( CO/STO).

Not a deal breaker of course, just kinda awkward as way of displaying aliases in game.

[Loekii]

I do not see the major issue of this to be honest.

Could someone explain what about this system bothers them? I can understand the chat function showing forum name as an immersion breaker (and I agree with) but what other than that is such a problem? It seems like it adds accountability.

It bothers me, as I do not want my Forum name associated with my toons.

It also bothers me because Cryptic did not inform us that upon making an Account, that that account will be broadcasted in their games.

People picked forum names for the forums, not to appear in the game. I know I would have picked a different name had I known it would be stapled to all my characters.

So in reward for those posters that had joined early and been following and promoting the game, they get the short end of the stick, while new players will be aware of this information and have the advantage of better name selection.

In my opinion, this is a far worse result, than going with the old system of just having individual character names, and having to find an alternative if your name has been taken.

As far as the accountability argument goes, this forum has been pretty good and respectful, so who is being held 'accountable' and for what? It is not like this forum is filled with trolls and rude people. And the respect has been there long before this naming system was created.

[ginousmc]

I also like the idea of accountability. "Oh, it's /that/ guy." So folks who get themselves a reputation on the forums can't just skate by in-game. I've seen that happen before too many times.

On the flipside to that argument...

If I kill player X over and over and over and over again....

I can look forward to an inbox full of flames the next time I log into the forums...



Why can't this be like every other MMO, where you have a 'GAME NAME' not a GAME NAME tied to a Forum name... thats just dumb.

Me personally I think I've seen better Ideas floating in the toilet.

[ginousmc]

It bothers me, as I do not want my Forum name associated with my toons.

It also bothers me because Cryptic did not inform us that upon making an Account, that that account will be broadcasted in their games.

People picked forum names for the forums, not to appear in the game. I know I would have picked a different name had I known it would be stapled to all my characters.

So in reward for those posters that had joined early and been following and promoting the game, they get the short end of the stick, while new players will be aware of this information and have the advantage of better name selection.

In my opinion, this is a far worse result, than going with the old system of just having individual character names, and having to find an alternative if your name has been taken.

As far as the accountability argument goes, this forum has been pretty good and respectful, so who is being held 'accountable' and for what? It is not like this forum is filled with trolls and rude people. And the respect has been there long before this naming system was created.

And again, its a security issue, as it broadcasts the ACCOUNT name for some people (those that have the same account name as their forum name, because it was never mentioned at sign up). So say Bill made a Forum account here last year, and selected BILLYBOB as both his Forum name and account name -- because it is just a forum -- BILLYBOB's account name is now publicly displayed to his GAME ACCOUNT, giving theives 1/2 of the equation to steal his account (and cc info). With identity theft at a High, it is really poor quality control by Cryptic to set up this system. :mad:






Not to mention..... it just looks stupid.

[DanSeale]

I have no intention of using my old gaming name (as far as I can tell) .. when I log on to STO. I would just as soon no one knew who I was. Not that anyone gives a royal rippity ru-ha what I think ... which is one good reason to remain safely anonymous

[Loekii]

i agree now i can rest esay about someone takeing my name

But you now have to worry about someone stealing your account and your CC information, as they may have your ACCOUNT name, so they just need to break the password to get it.

I am shocked that Cryptic would expose players to identity theft like this. :mad:

[Varrangian]

One thing I think needs to be made clear. When your character's name appears above you it is just the name of the character shown not the @characterX. The times you see the @characterX are in the the text window when they type something or if you click to get info on the character.

[ginousmc]

I can see it now...




" Sir we're picking up a ship on long range sensors.......
It appears to be the USS Dumb Idea@Captain_Thornwallow@ginousmc"



or something of the nature. lol.

[OddjobXL]

I know you're incensed Loekii but I'm sure Cryptic plans good security or ways to keep that from going down. They've been around the block a few times.

Frankly, I don't see this as "punishing" anyone. If folks develop good reputations it's all good. If they develop bad reputations, well, actions have consequences. I think that's a big step forward.

[ginousmc]

I know you're incensed Loekii but I'm sure Cryptic plans good security or ways to keep that from going down. They've been around the block a few times.

Frankly, I don't see this as "punishing" anyone. If folks develop good reputations it's all good. If they develop bad reputations, well, actions have consequences. I think that's a big step forward.

As I replied to one of your other posts...


It has nothing to do with reputation... The average gamer doesn't care about anyone's reputation but their own... and they tend to get a little upset when they lose a few times...

If I kill so and so 10 times over, because they really aren't that good of a player....

I can look foward to getting my inbox flamed and blown up...

[Loekii]

I know you're incensed Loekii but I'm sure Cryptic plans good security or ways to keep that from going down. They've been around the block a few times.

Frankly, I don't see this as "punishing" anyone. If folks develop good reputations it's all good. If they develop bad reputations, well, actions have consequences. I think that's a big step forward.

Publicly displaying account names is a good step forward? I disagree greatly. I am not even sure if the credit card companies would be okay with this.

Imo, this tells me that Cryptic's security is pretty poor.

[Kyias]

But you now have to worry about someone stealing your account and your CC information, as they may have your ACCOUNT name, so they just need to break the password to get it.

I am shocked that Cryptic would expose players to identity theft like this. :mad:

Identity Theft? If your user name is the same as your forum name, couldn't they hack you that way anyway? Just by you posting on the boards?

Also, if you wanted a better name (for your forum name) couldn't we just create new forum accounts?

While I agree that the community is respectful now, it will not be true at launch. MMO launches+forums just turns it intoa cesspool of angry people and the good community generally is fewer in between (they are playing the game.)

I'm not saying I'm happy about it, just some solutions to prevent fear.

Also I agree, privacy is pretty key as well, curious how that will go.

[OddjobXL]

As I replied to one of your other posts...


It has nothing to do with reputation... The average gamer doesn't care about anyone's reputation but their own... and they tend to get a little upset when they lose a few times...

If I kill so and so 10 times over, because they really aren't that good of a player....

I can look foward to getting my inbox flamed and blown up...

Trust me there's an ignore function in the forums, and I'm sure there will be one in-game, and it works. If you can't resist following a newbie around and killing him over and over then you may just have to deal with some fallout. Whether anyone cares or not, well, just let's wait and see. In my experience communities do very much care about what other players are up to. It's what gossip is all about and most MMOs are rife with it especially in games with tight communities like RP servers or single server games (IE Eve Online).

[Xenoshaft]

It bothers me, as I do not want my Forum name associated with my toons.

It also bothers me because Cryptic did not inform us that upon making an Account, that that account will be broadcasted in their games.

People picked forum names for the forums, not to appear in the game. I know I would have picked a different name had I known it would be stapled to all my characters.

So in reward for those posters that had joined early and been following and promoting the game, they get the short end of the stick, while new players will be aware of this information and have the advantage of better name selection.

In my opinion, this is a far worse result, than going with the old system of just having individual character names, and having to find an alternative if your name has been taken.

As far as the accountability argument goes, this forum has been pretty good and respectful, so who is being held 'accountable' and for what? It is not like this forum is filled with trolls and rude people. And the respect has been there long before this naming system was created.



I don’t see where you are coming from in one point. Your name is pretty cool on the forums, it’s not like you picked, StupidRedShirtWhoSmellsFunny or something like that. Also I don’t understand how you would feel the people who came to the forums later have a better name selection that us older guys- we had the pick of the litter, the young folks had to pick something not take already.

However I do see your point with account security. If someone knows your account name, it might make it easy for them to "hack" your account?? Before (with old systems) people not only had to know/guess your password but also a username. It gave a kind of two layer security. Not sure what to do about that.

How about this- why not give anyone eligible for the specials, the ones old time forum goers will get, the option to change their forum name? Thus they would be grandfathered in with the specials, get the opportunity to pick the name they wish they had picked in the first place, and we can stop beating this one in to the ground.

Look folks, I get it - it can stink if you picked a bad name. Worse still if you don’t really want to link all of your guys to one place, so that you can have “secret” guys that you play alone, I have done this myself. At the end it’s just a game. For anyone who thinks there is no reason to add some kind of accountability-in a mmo, please consider what happens when players with different styles and different ages come together. Also some people get really mad about games. People do really nasty stuff when they are mad and think no one will ever know- IE they get can get away with it. (meaning they have no personal character)

[Loekii]

Identity Theft? If your user name is the same as your forum name, couldn't they hack you that way anyway? Just by you posting on the boards?


And that is why I have such a huge issue with this, and I am totally shocked that Cryptic thinks it is okay.

This is why other companies never publicly display your account information.

Your forum 'account' should not be your 'Game Account'. They should be DIFFERENT names, as a security precaution. When you create a 'game account', it should ask for a DIFFERENT name than your forum name, and forum account name.

However, there are people that have created their Forum Account with the same name as their Forum name -- because it was just a forum, with zero association to personal data and CC information. Thus, people are 'displaying' their ACCOUNT NAME publicly, and thus opening up themselves to identity theft.

However, Cryptic has just opened up a huge door to identity theft, because they are simply taking your existing forum account, and making it your Game Account (so you can get in game emails).

[DanSeale]

And that is why I have such a huge issue with this, and I am totally shocked that Cryptic thinks it is okay.

This is why other companies never publicly display your account information.

Your forum 'account' should not be your 'Game Account'. They should be DIFFERENT names, as a security precaution. When you create a 'game account', it should ask for a DIFFERENT name than your forum name, and forum account name.

However, there are people that have created their Forum Account with the same name as their Forum name -- because it was just a forum, with zero association to personal data and CC information. Thus, people are 'displaying' their ACCOUNT NAME publicly, and thus opening up themselves to identity theft.

However, Cryptic has just opened up a huge door to identity theft, because they are simply taking your existing forum account, and making it your Game Account (so you can get in game emails).


There in is another problem for me in particular .. just the same .. I want to be someone who is virtually unknown (I have my reasons)

[Kyias]

And that is why I have such a huge issue with this, and I am totally shocked that Cryptic thinks it is okay.

This is why other companies never publicly display your account information.

Your forum 'account' should not be your 'Game Account'. They should be DIFFERENT names, as a security precaution. When you create a 'game account', it should ask for a DIFFERENT name than your forum name, and forum account name.

However, there are people that have created their Forum Account with the same name as their Forum name -- because it was just a forum, with zero association to personal data and CC information. Thus, people are 'displaying' their ACCOUNT NAME publicly, and thus opening up themselves to identity theft.

However, Cryptic has just opened up a huge door to identity theft, because they are simply taking your existing forum account, and making it your Game Account (so you can get in game emails).


I am starting to understand what you are saying now. Our forum name is our master account, where before, your master account was a seperate account entirely.

We should petition them to open up master account settings now then. That way, in the account control interface, you can change your actual forum handle. In AoC for example, you tie your forum account to your master account. By doing that, you can change your forum name.

Hopefully they will allow us to change our forum names (which would still tie to our IG char) to improve security.

[Loekii]

Also, if you wanted a better name (for your forum name) couldn't we just create new forum accounts?



From what I understand, it violates the Guidelines of the site:

17. Each user is allowed to create one account. Automated account creation, participation, and content scraping is not permitted.


So we now are forcing people to either expose themselves to identity theft, suffer a poor forum name choice, or violate the forum guidelines.

[ginousmc]

There in is another problem for me in particular .. just the same .. I want to be someone who is virtually unknown (I have my reasons)

And it doesn't matter what those reasons are....

You have them and thats that...



I would prefer not to have this forum tag associated with my game tag as well... Not because I plan on doing anything dumb....
I just think its a stupid concept, all to get ingame mail from the forum....

I don't want ingame mail from the forum.... How bout getting in the game and sending me a private message? Is that too old fashioned?

[Zepath]

No, I can tell you exactly what's going on here. They THINK its going to help them have more customers. How they every came to that conclusion escapes me. But they did.

Now, instead of having a clean chat box, instead of knowing for sure that the Loekii you talked to yesterday is the same Loekii you're talking to now (without having to remember additional crap or look it up) is gone.

Instead of being able to have that stealth alt, now you have to either come clean upfront (which eliminates the reason for have a stealth alt) or deal with guildies, friends and family who are put off by the fact you didn't come clean, when they stumble across you talking and see its you.

Now we have to deal with flame wars in the boards, and unsolicited messages from people you ticked off, and the gold spammers who got your name in-game.

And for those of us that used a Forum name we've used elsewhere, we have to worry about those forums getting hacked where they can get your email address and possibly your real name and city.

Its just a stupid stupid stupid plan. Never should your in-game persona be attached in any way with you out-of-game personna UNLESS I CHOOSE to do that.

[ginousmc]

No, I can tell you exactly what's going on here. They THINK its going to help them have more customers. How they every came to that conclusion escapes me. But they did.

Now, instead of having a clean chat box, instead of knowing for sure that the Loekii you talked to yesterday is the same Loekii you're talking to now (without having to remember additional crap or look it up) is gone.

Instead of being able to have that stealth alt, now you have to either come clean upfront (which eliminates the reason for have a stealth alt) or deal with guildies, friends and family who are put off by the fact you didn't come clean, when they stumble across you talking and see its you.

Now we have to deal with flame wars in the boards, and unsolicited messages from people you ticked off, and the gold spammers who got your name in-game.

And for those of us that used a Forum name we've used elsewhere, we have to worry about those forums getting hacked where they can get your email address and possibly your real name and city.

Its just a stupid stupid stupid plan. Never should your in-game persona be attached in any way with you out-of-game personna UNLESS I CHOOSE to do that.




+1 good sir.

[Xenoshaft]

No, I can tell you exactly what's going on here. They THINK its going to help them have more customers. How they every came to that conclusion escapes me. But they did.

Now, instead of having a clean chat box, instead of knowing for sure that the Loekii you talked to yesterday is the same Loekii you're talking to now (without having to remember additional crap or look it up) is gone.

Instead of being able to have that stealth alt, now you have to either come clean upfront (which eliminates the reason for have a stealth alt) or deal with guildies, friends and family who are put off by the fact you didn't come clean, when they stumble across you talking and see its you.

Now we have to deal with flame wars in the boards, and unsolicited messages from people you ticked off, and the gold spammers who got your name in-game.

And for those of us that used a Forum name we've used elsewhere, we have to worry about those forums getting hacked where they can get your email address and possibly your real name and city.

Its just a stupid stupid stupid plan. Never should your in-game persona be attached in any way with you out-of-game personna UNLESS I CHOOSE to do that.


I agree with this "Never should your in-game persona be attached in any way with you out-of-game personna UNLESS I CHOOSE to do that"

I also agree with this "Now, instead of having a clean chat box, instead of knowing for sure that the Loekii you talked to yesterday is the same Loekii you're talking to now (without having to remember additional crap or look it up) is gone.

Instead of being able to have that stealth alt, now you have to either come clean upfront (which eliminates the reason for have a stealth alt) or deal with guildies, friends and family who are put off by the fact you didn't come clean, when they stumble across you talking and see its you.

Now we have to deal with flame wars in the boards, and unsolicited messages from people you ticked off, and the gold spammers who got your name in-game.

And for those of us that used a Forum name we've used elsewhere, we have to worry about those forums getting hacked where they can get your email address and possibly your real name and city."

however im not sure i buy this part. "No, I can tell you exactly what's going on here. They THINK its going to help them have more customers. How they every came to that conclusion escapes me. But they did." I dont know why they did it. Maybe we could get a short epxlination from them?>

[The_Padre]

From what I understand, it violates the Guidelines of the site:


So we now are forcing people to either expose themselves to identity theft, suffer a poor forum name choice, or violate the forum guidelines.

Who at Cryptic did you ask about changing your game account name? Because in beta a few people got their account names changed no problem.

[Loekii]

I am starting to understand what you are saying now. Our forum name is our master account, where before, your master account was a seperate account entirely.

We should petition them to open up master account settings now then. That way, in the account control interface, you can change your actual forum handle. In AoC for example, you tie your forum account to your master account. By doing that, you can change your forum name.

Hopefully they will allow us to change our forum names (which would still tie to our IG char) to improve security.

I think it needs to be not about changing forum names, but rather about creating a DIFFERENT GAME ACCOUNT Name.

For example, say I purchase CO in September. It should go like this:

Log in with existing Forum Account
Then be prompted to create a Game Account Name and password

must be different than Forum Account name, forum handle, and password

Then create a @Displayname for that Game account (this is what will be seen in game)

must be different than your Game Account Name and Password, but can be the same as your Forum Handle.



Thus you GAME ACCOUNT information is never publicly displayed anywhere, thus protecting your personal information (ie CC, address, etc), people are not stuck with their 'forum handles' as their @displayname, but they could still link their 'in game mail system' to the forums.

[ginousmc]

I think it needs to be not about changing forum names, but rather about creating a DIFFERENT GAME ACCOUNT Name.

For example, say I purchase CO in September. It should go like this:

Log in with existing Forum Account
Then be prompted to create a Game Account Name and password

must be different than Forum Account name, forum handle, and password

Then create a @Displayname for that Game account (this is what will be seen in game)

must be different than your Game Account Name and Password, but can be the same as your Forum Handle.



Thus you GAME ACCOUNT information is never publicly displayed anywhere, thus protecting your personal information (ie CC, address, etc), but they could still link their 'in game mail system' to the forums.




But what if you don't want that stupid @whateverthehellyournameis at all??

To me, its just a stupid concept...

I played Dark Age of Camelot for 10 years and I never ran into a problem when I logged in, picked my server, and then it loaded my character sheet.

I don't want an @ sign following me around the game... Despite all the good points you raise, simply its not even asthetically pleasing to look at T.A. McHale@ginousmc.... again its just dumb...

I wonder why Cryptic did that... They didn't do anything stupid like that for CoH/CoV

[Paulo999]

I disagree, simple because this is a personal choice, rather than something that can be 'measured'. It might not bother one person, but greatly bother another, for various reasons.


what about the peeps who buy it and arnt registerd on the fourms...

[OddjobXL]

I think I can agree with a separate account name that handles payments and personal information but I very much think one's forum name should be associated with in-game characters. There's no great reason to have stealth alts or to conceal one's identity that outweighs the value of being able to identify and celebrate or censure folks in the community who contribute to or detract from the community.

If someone really wants to be anonymous all they have to do is not make a big splash in the forums picking fights or going on tears. Odds are they can ignore the forums entirely (like 88% of all gamers do) and have a perfectly fine time in-game.

It's the "look at me" crowd on the forums who should have to live by their words in the game. That includes me too. If folks make claims about who they are they should have to back it up. If they're comfortable being aggressive and hostile to people in the forums their rosy rotund buttocks should be hanging out there in the game as well and every bit as exposed as their opinions.

[128hoodmario]

Please don't make me G-Man@128hoodmario it is too much of an almighty mouthful! Who is named like that who are we supposed to have realistic names if I have 128hoodmario stuck on the end?

[Loekii]

what about the peeps who buy it and arnt registerd on the fourms...

I think the way the system is currently set up, when they create their account, it creates a Forum account for them, again, using their game account as their forum handle. :eek:

[dru_mcd]

Darmok&Jalad@Tanagra

sorry, it was begging for it ... :D

So, is this in any way confirmed or is this speculation?

[Kyias]

I think the way the system is currently set up, when they create their account, it creates a Forum account for them, again, using their game account as their forum handle. :eek:

Is that a speculation, or is that a confirmed fact?

I mean, these are some serious things people are talking about and if it is only speculating then I'd say wait and see what Cryptic officially has to say.

If it is a fact, then I would think we need to create a petition thread of a viable alternative to protect personal info.

[spskeff2]

Please don't make me G-Man@128hoodmario it is too much of an almighty mouthful! Who is named like that who are we supposed to have realistic names if I have 128hoodmario stuck on the end?

Seriously...it just looks terrible. We may as well use our registered email addresses as long as we're denoting user account info. I just don't like it.

I'd like to see something like just toon name in the chat window that when you shift-click, their ship and fleet name will appear. (like WoW when you /who someone).

[jdnix]

Publicly displaying account names is a good step forward? I disagree greatly. I am not even sure if the credit card companies would be okay with this.

Imo, this tells me that Cryptic's security is pretty poor.

The name the forum displays doesn't have to be the same as your account login name (my account name isn't DocKaon), so I don't see why it would suddenly have to be the same because they display it in game. Secondly, every MMO I've ever heard of wipes its forums when it launches. You're then required to get a new forum account which is typically tied to a subscription. So at that point you can change your account name to something different than your forum name if they're currently the same and you want to keep your forum name.

The only thing I think they should make people aware of is if your displayed account name (for forums and in game) will be tied together across Champions & STO if you're subscribed to both.

[Loekii]

The name the forum displays doesn't have to be the same as your account login name (my account name isn't DocKaon), so I don't see why it would suddenly have to be the same because they display it in game

However, I know a couple of users that have the same name for both their Forum handle and Forum account.




Is that a speculation, or is that a confirmed fact?

I mean, these are some serious things people are talking about and if it is only speculating then I'd say wait and see what Cryptic officially has to say.

If it is a fact, then I would think we need to create a petition thread of a viable alternative to protect personal info.

I do not know how the 'non-forum' member account set up, so that is speculation.

I do know that as an existing forum member, it automatically applied my Forum Name to my Game Account.

I was going through the process expecting to see a 'select game account name' and 'select @Displayname', but never found it.

[Paulo999]

I think the way the system is currently set up, when they create their account, it creates a Forum account for them, again, using their game account as their forum handle. :eek:

hmm be easier just to let us pick our names like in other mmos. or maybe the ability to turn it off :S like the afk tag thingy in SWG.

[The_Padre]

It'd be better if it used your player character's name and ship name for in-game chat, so for example:

Jean-Luc Picard@Enterprise :D

[williams.blaine]

To be honest I would have no problem with this if they just allowed us to change our Forum display names. I was feeling particularly uninspired the day I chose liquidblaino. It would be nice to change it to something a bit more interesting even if it wasn't tied to my @Displayname.

[128hoodmario]

I think you can make your display name different to you username when you first make an account (that system wasn't there when I joined, I tryed to make a new account with the new system and there was a security image I was supposed to copy a code off but I just got the white box with red cross through it lol. Lucky I joined originally when I did lol)

[rogerwroten]

I also like this idea.

The biggest problem that the internet in general has, and forums and MMOs specifically, is that anonymity makes people feel empowered to act like total griefing jacktards.

With this system if you become known as a total griefing jacktard, either in game or on the forums, people will know about it and probably decide not to team with you.

That's bad again how? Oh yeah. That's bad if you want to be a griefing jacktard! For the rest of us it will literally be no problem whatsoever.

You are forgetting that in most MMOs a very small amount of players actually have anything to do with the forums. Do you really think that the "bad" players care what you think of them? Do you really think that this is in any way going to change anything?

[ginousmc]

You are forgetting that in most MMOs a very small amount of players actually have anything to do with the forums. Do you really think that the "bad" players care what you think of them? Do you really think that this is in any way going to change anything?

Almost verbatim of what I had said about 2 or 3 pages back...

These people don't care... They don't care about your feelings, they don't care if you like them... they play for them, and anyone who upsets their little bubble, they go off the deep end via flames on forums, and in some cases, hacking accounts to get what the other player has...

Some people take these MMOs way too damn seriously. And its truely sad...

There will always be those people in MMO games... Those who are complete and utter pains to even stand next to in game...

And boom... now they have access to my Account name.... all it takes is a lucky guess, or a way to get a key logger onto that machine and there goes the neighborhood.

[OddjobXL]

The folks in the forms tend to be heavy users, guild leaders - what marketing folks call 'influencers'. I don't think it would be the end of bad behavior but it's a good public square to start with. Not everyone hangs out in the square but it's where folks who want to be in the know hang out.

[ginousmc]

Oh and be that person to use the same password for multiple things....


Yeah..... be that guy.

[LordDave]

On the flipside to that argument...

If I kill player X over and over and over and over again....

I can look forward to an inbox full of flames the next time I log into the forums...



Why can't this be like every other MMO, where you have a 'GAME NAME' not a GAME NAME tied to a Forum name... thats just dumb.

Me personally I think I've seen better Ideas floating in the toilet.
All SONY Online products for PC use the "Station Launcher" which I believe is linked to the forums.


From what I understand, it violates the Guidelines of the site:


So we now are forcing people to either expose themselves to identity theft, suffer a poor forum name choice, or violate the forum guidelines.

Ok, that bothers me. Some people would like to have a new account name and I don't blame them for that. At the very least a different Forum Display Name would be good.

I can see where people are coming from but...
YOUR ALL A BUNCH OF PANZIES!
Ok, you don't wanna talk to your friends/guildies, just say "I do not want to talk to you right now." If they get mad, they don't know you very well, are too sensitive, or attention *****s.
If you worry about security... Get a better password. :P Most hacks occur via Keyloggers downloaded via 3rd party apps anyway. A new account name won't do much against that. Also, the best way to solve the "I'm gonna guess your password until I get it"? 5 time lockout. Done.

They're doing this so they can setup a future "armory" like system that WoW has.

Personally I think your all overreacting.
Oh and having a Real Name and city is worthless. What are you going to do? Send them mail spam? Call them constantly?
Pfft. I fear no one and neither should you. Hackers WANT you to be afraid. They laugh at your fear. So show no fear and they have no power.

[thefreshjedi]

When I asked in the irc chat, I was told this is how the system works for CO and that is all he knew about -- not as in he could not say more, but more as in this is how the system will work as far as he knew.



In CO is is like this:

Name above Players Head = Zantril
Name appearing in Chat window = Zantril@Loekii
When inspecting a Character = @Loekii is displayed at bottom of display window


Well that's not so bad... at least I'll be able to keep track of all of you guys when I do get to play online. It will be a nice way to keep in touch with you all I think. But maybe that's just me being friendly like.

No-one hates my handle more than I do, but at least you'll know it is me, from the forums -in game-.

-avery

[Xenoshaft]

Oh and be that person to use the same password for multiple things....


Yeah..... be that guy.

just pick something crazy hard like

not4any1ButME

not that i ever have used that one. but its not bad, and try to guess that including the caps and the numbers. forgetabout it.

If you are worried about a brutforce attack on your password--- Ummm , your just not that important.. sorry dude. nor am I.

[Xenoshaft]

Well that's not so bad... at least I'll be able to keep track of all of you guys when I do get to play online. It will be a nice way to keep in touch with you all I think. But maybe that's just me being friendly like.

No-one hates my handle more than I do, but at least you'll know it is me, from the forums -in game-.

-avery

Sweet dude, Normally i get something out of your posts and i would love to go blow up some enemy crusiers with ya! ;)

[spskeff2]

Dave, breathe buddy.....Breathe. LOL!

[thefreshjedi]

Sweet dude, Normally i get something out of your posts and i would love to go blow up some enemy crusiers with ya! ;)

Exactly, I'll be able to identify you personally as someone I've talked with before...like LordDave, or Loekii, or Flatfingers, or god only knows how many names out there that I look for everyday.

-avery

[ginousmc]

just pick something crazy hard like

not4any1ButME

not that i ever have used that one. but its not bad, and try to guess that including the caps and the numbers. forgetabout it.

If you are worried about a brutforce attack on your password--- Ummm , your just not that important.. sorry dude. nor am I.



Don't get me wrong... lol I don't want to be that important... I'd rather stay in the gray area when it comes to stuff like that lol...

[rogerwroten]

Identity Theft? If your user name is the same as your forum name, couldn't they hack you that way anyway? Just by you posting on the boards?

Also, if you wanted a better name (for your forum name) couldn't we just create new forum accounts?

While I agree that the community is respectful now, it will not be true at launch. MMO launches+forums just turns it intoa cesspool of angry people and the good community generally is fewer in between (they are playing the game.)

I'm not saying I'm happy about it, just some solutions to prevent fear.

Also I agree, privacy is pretty key as well, curious how that will go.

The problem here is that if you could create a new forum account, you would loose the "perks" Cryptic has said that they are giving players who got an account before a certain day.

Almost verbatim of what I had said about 2 or 3 pages back...

These people don't care... They don't care about your feelings, they don't care if you like them... they play for them, and anyone who upsets their little bubble, they go off the deep end via flames on forums, and in some cases, hacking accounts to get what the other player has...

Some people take these MMOs way too damn seriously. And its truely sad...

There will always be those people in MMO games... Those who are complete and utter pains to even stand next to in game...

And boom... now they have access to my Account name.... all it takes is a lucky guess, or a way to get a key logger onto that machine and there goes the neighborhood.

I started replying then realized how many pages there were. :)

[Swordopolis]

Personally I think your all overreacting.

This, this, this.

[ginousmc]

Pfft. I fear no one and neither should you. Hackers WANT you to be afraid. They laugh at your fear. So show no fear and they have no power.



Or just turn the tables on them, when they try to get into your network and find themselves in your trapped in the little honeypot you designed.


Looks around....


What?


lol

[Loekii]

Exactly, I'll be able to identify you personally as someone I've talked with before...like LordDave, or Loekii, or Flatfingers, or god only knows how many names out there that I look for everyday.

-avery

Well you will NOT be seeing loekii in the game. I can guarantee you that - be it I create another account or I simply do not buy the game.

[Loekii]

Personally I think your all overreacting.


I take Identity theft as a serious issue.

Most people do, which is why its not 'overacting'.

[indigowhale345]

I wonder why Cryptic did that... They didn't do anything stupid like that for CoH/CoV


Actually they did. Everyone in CoX has a global name, which is an @name. By default, though, your global name was your first character's name, but it had nothing to do with the forums or your account name, other than being linked to your account.

I'm going to totally have to jump on the hate@thisidea bandwagon though. This was definitely not made clear when signing up for an account here. There are a ton of reasons against this, most importantly are privacy and security though, as other people have already mentioned.

These forums are not as secure as you might think. Quite a few times I've seen account names leaked, not through any criminal activity or maliciousness or carelessness, but because the forums have odd bugs from time to time, and instead of showing your forum name it shows your account name. Now if someone were to deliberately steal this data, anyone's game account is suddenly at risk. They are only a password away from control. That is simply unacceptable once money enters the equation.

Privacy is also very important, despite the nonsense some people say, its not your right to harass them because they act like an idiot or otherwise. No one has the right to bother me for taco recipes while I'm trying to blow up Klingons. No one has the right to try and carry an argument over from the forums into the game. No one else even has the right to know I'm online if I just want to play by myself.

I keep that stuff separate myself because when I want to blah blah blah on the forums, I can do that, but when I want to play the game, I don't want to be bothered by the forums. And if I want to play a different character just to get away from the headaches that guilds and friends can cause, well why shouldn't I be able to?


Accountability is an absolutely nonsensical reason. When have you ever needed to "punch someone in the face" because of something someone said on the forums or in a game? You will survive without the ability to gank them, or without telling everyone what retards they are. Grow up! If its an actual exploit or crime, then that's what the GMs are for.

And guess what? Someone can talk trash about you on the forums just as easily, and there doesn't need to be any in game reason for it, they can fabricate the entire incident! It happens already! It doesn't matter if you know their in game name now or not. Everyone knows all criminals are guilty until proven innocent.

Big Brother never stopped anyone from thoughtcrime, did he? No, all those eyes do is let them come after you and punish you for the perceived transgression.

You punish everyone to get some illusion of power to deal with the handful of actual problems. You cut off your hand because a finger was infected. Yet that finger, for however disgusting it was to look at, isn't an actual problem except in your own mind.

You don't need to retaliate, you don't need this "accountability". That's the point here. There is nothing fair or noble or anything about justifying petty griefing against someone in game because you didn't like what they said on the forums or vice versa. There is no legitimate reason for you or I to do that. Its petty, its pointless, and it won't change anything.

[thefreshjedi]

Well you will NOT be seeing loekii in the game. I can guarantee you that - be it I create another account or I simply do not buy the game.


Well, I was hoping to be able to identify you, and some others. So whatever name you choose, be sure to look me up. I'm always happy to talk or play with any of you guys or gals.

-avery

[Loekii]

These forums are not as secure as you might think. Quite a few times I've seen account names leaked, not through any criminal activity or maliciousness or carelessness, but because the forums have odd bugs from time to time, and instead of showing your forum name it shows your account name. Now if someone were to deliberately steal this data, anyone's game account is suddenly at risk. They are only a password away from control. That is simply unacceptable once money enters the equation.

I had forgotten about those bugs. They tend to show up on the 'add user to friends' lists, and such.

[AtomicNerd]

I have two questions on this.

1. What if you’re not a forum member when you join the game; will you be required to make an account here?

2. What will happen to the people who spend all day every day on this forum talking about how they are never going to play this game? Will they be assigned big sad clown face decals to be prominently displayed on their ships and uniforms?

But in all seriousness a few problems that will come up people aren’t thinking about.

People are making enemies here while everything is theoretical and up in the air but might have to work together or at least around each other ingame. Some people may like the idea but it’s a similar argument to why voting is done in secret. If I voted for someone whose ideas offend my boss or coworkers I don’t show up to work with a button announcing it. I have my beliefs but in real life it’s going to be long shift everyday if we’re in each other faces thinking about that.

People act like this is going to stop people from being rude to each other on the forum but no one goes into any of those fights thinking they are going to end up that way and no one here doesn’t have a few people who’ve hated something they’ve said. It’s not if someone has been a jerk it’s if someone has ever said anything anyone disagreed with and some of the most vocal supporters of this naming system have stepped on plenty of toes on the forum. The people who disagreed with you in theory here may get to actually affect you ingame and as long as they keep within the rules there may be nothing you can do but make a new account. And the damage is already done for most of us anyway.

I didn’t really plan to have the term "AtomicNerd" associated with my ingame character; it's a t-shirt line like. If it wasn't too wordy I would have gone with "Atomic Zombie killer" which was actually on the shirt I bought. The envoy program which I don’t even actually know of as anything but a title isn’t going to keep me using this account and dragging a silly name and every fight I’ve ever had here ingame when I need to trade and fight alongside these people.

This forum is about theoretical ideas most of which won’t make it to the game but the fights people had about them will still follow them?

Early in 08 you had people predicting the game would be in open beta or even launched by now. People told them that was unrealistic and they responded by calling the people disagreeing with them trolls. That along with splits over things like MT’s and rolls will now follow into the game, even though most of us would be all to happy to leave that all in here where it belongs (as much as any of it even belongs here) You don’t know who gets there feelings a little bruised and who keeps a psychotic lifelong grudge over something you didn’t even think was that big a deal. There will already be enough of that ingame but on top of that we have to drag the baggage of this forum (with all the great effort that’s been put into conflict resolution and team building) into it as well?

If you had some argument with one member of a fleet here you may end up having a whole fleet gunning for you in game. And that argument may have been over something as important as “How many ridges on Klingon’s forehead are too many?!” someone had in the first 3 months the forum was open.

It’s why they don’t make soldiers wear red or blue markers on their uniforms based on their voting records. It’s just a bad idea.

[ginousmc]

Actually they did. Everyone in CoX has a global name, which is an @name. By default, though, your global name was your first character's name, but it had nothing to do with the forums or your account name, other than being linked to your account.


Ahhhh... I'm tracking you.

Well, it was linked to your account name... which is all fine and good... I guess what my point was, Its dumb to have


Captain_Welcot@ginousmc following you around the whole game... Its not asthetically pleasing, professional, or even remotely realistic... yes yes yes I know its a video game, but I'd still rather not have an @<insertname> following me.

[Commodore_Rook]

When I asked in the irc chat, I was told this is how the system works for CO and that is all he knew about -- not as in he could not say more, but more as in this is how the system will work as far as he knew.



In CO is is like this:

Name above Players Head = Zantril
Name appearing in Chat window = Zantril@Loekii
When inspecting a Character = @Loekii is displayed at bottom of display window


Ok, so what is the exact problem then? If I can have my choice of display name for my character (and that is the ONLY thing you see floating above my head), then what is the problem?

[Swordopolis]

I can see where people are coming from but...
YOUR ALL A BUNCH OF PANZIES!
Ok, you don't wanna talk to your friends/guildies, just say "I do not want to talk to you right now." If they get mad, they don't know you very well, are too sensitive, or attention *****s.
If you worry about security... Get a better password. :P Most hacks occur via Keyloggers downloaded via 3rd party apps anyway. A new account name won't do much against that. Also, the best way to solve the "I'm gonna guess your password until I get it"? 5 time lockout. Done.

Damn, I skimmed right over the top of that last comment on my previous read-through.
Under these circumstances, I definitely agree that there should be such a safeguard against such guess-and-check cracking. No more than a few attempts from a given IP before it prevents additional attempts and notifies the account's owner via e-mail that someone's trying to brute-force your account.

[Loekii]

Ok, so what is the exact problem then? If I can have my choice of display name for my character (and that is the ONLY thing you see floating above my head), then what is the problem?

There are a few problems:

It ties you to your forum persona, so if you wanted your characters to be separated from that persona (like OlBuzzard), you cannot.
If you picked a bad 'forum name', you are forever stuck with it. (creating another forum name is against the rules).
And the Big issue, it Publicizes your ACCOUNT NAME, making it available to hackers and identity thieves -- making it easier to hack into your Account, and steal your Credit Card and personal information.

[Jaymz]

I have two questions on this.

1. What if you’re not a forum member when you join the game; will you be required to make an account here?

.

When you create a global account it works both for the site, the game and the forum. It's all tied together, and apparently it's Cryptic global, that is it probably works for CO's site and forum and game. I at least seem to be getting my CO mail here at the ST:O site.

Anyway, yeah, i don't like it. I don't HATE it, but i don't like it. Giving people your account name basically means they only need to bruteforce the password and they get it (i'm sure Cryptic will notice the bruteforce attempts though, or not, if they are done slowly enough).

What REALLY bothers me though is that i think they implemented that system in CO because they are allowing people to have the same names, so it's kind of a way to differentiatie between the 50 "Spiderman"s. Any word on whether people will be able to have the same starship or char name? Cause that would really blow.

[ginousmc]

I have two questions on this.

1. What if you’re not a forum member when you join the game; will you be required to make an account here?

2. What will happen to the people who spend all day every day on this forum talking about how they are never going to play this game? Will they be assigned big sad clown face decals to be prominently displayed on their ships and uniforms?

But in all seriousness a few problems that will come up people aren’t thinking about.

People are making enemies here while everything is theoretical and up in the air but might have to work together or at least around each other ingame. Some people may like the idea but it’s a similar argument to why voting is done in secret. If I voted for someone whose ideas offend my boss or coworkers I don’t show up to work with a button announcing it. I have my beliefs but in real life it’s going to be long shift everyday if we’re in each other faces thinking about that.

People act like this is going to stop people from being rude to each other on the forum but no one goes into any of those fights thinking they are going to end up that way and no one here doesn’t have a few people who’ve hated something they’ve said. It’s not if someone has been a jerk it’s if someone has ever said anything anyone disagreed with and some of the most vocal supporters of this naming system have stepped on plenty of toes on the forum. The people who disagreed with you in theory here may get to actually affect you ingame and as long as they keep within the rules there may be nothing you can do but make a new account. And the damage is already done for most of us anyway.

I didn’t really plan to have the term "AtomicNerd" associated with my ingame character; it's a t-shirt line like. If it wasn't too wordy I would have gone with "Atomic Zombie killer" which was actually on the shirt I bought. The envoy program which I don’t even actually know of as anything but a title isn’t going to keep me using this account and dragging a silly name and every fight I’ve ever had here ingame when I need to trade and fight alongside these people.

This forum is about theoretical ideas most of which won’t make it to the game but the fights people had about them will still follow them?

Early in 08 you had people predicting the game would be in open beta or even launched by now. People told them that was unrealistic and they responded by calling the people disagreeing with them trolls. That along with splits over things like MT’s and rolls will now follow into the game, even though most of us would be all to happy to leave that all in here where it belongs (as much as any of it even belongs here) You don’t know who gets there feelings a little bruised and who keeps a psychotic lifelong grudge over something you didn’t even think was that big a deal. There will already be enough of that ingame but on top of that we have to drag the baggage of this forum (with all the great effort that’s been put into conflict resolution and team building) into it as well?

If you had some argument with one member of a fleet here you may end up having a whole fleet gunning for you in game. And that argument may have been over something as important as “How many ridges on Klingon’s forehead are too many?!” someone had in the first 3 months the forum was open.

It’s why they don’t make soldiers wear red or blue markers on their uniforms based on their voting records. It’s just a bad idea.



Wow....

Jaw drops


That was.... delivered quite well...

Well done.


+10

But seriously, That was good, I'm impressed... and shutting up now lol.

[Bigwig]

LOL say good bye to role-play.

This sounds like a completely lazy, amateurish lame-ass idea. I am seriously losing faith in Cryptic.

[SelorKiith]

LOL say good bye to role-play.

This sounds like a completely lazy, amateurish lame-ass idea. I am seriously losing faith in Cryptic.

So... why good bye? Just because there is somehting next to your characters name in a darker color?
I presume you call yourself a Role-Player and then you can't get over such a minor thing? Yeah...

[ginousmc]

BigWig you have your name in your sig wrong...


Its Kelanos@BigWig lol.

[rogerwroten]

Ok, so what is the exact problem then? If I can have my choice of display name for my character (and that is the ONLY thing you see floating above my head), then what is the problem?

One problem I have is that it is displayed in the chat window. Take a look at some of the names on these forums... I don't remember the exact sequence but one has nothing but numbers (something like 10+).

And the way I understand it if someone has the same character name and you want to whisper them you need to type the whole thing in. Correct me if I am wrong here.

[Gideon]

I like the @name idea and the fact that Cryptic is attempting to tie their games together and incorporate an online but out of game link (in game email can be accessed from the website). I hope they continue in this direction. Also, if any of you are concerned about your account name being displayed in-game or as your forum name you can email cryptic support with three suggestions and they will change your forum name/display name for you.

[rogerwroten]

So... why good bye? Just because there is somehting next to your characters name in a darker color?
I presume you call yourself a Role-Player and then you can't get over such a minor thing? Yeah...

Just to jump in here... I would say you are not a role player. Little thing make a big difference in RPing.

[Gideon]

One problem I have is that it is displayed in the chat window. Take a look at some of the names on these forums... I don't remember the exact sequence but one has nothing but numbers (something like 10+).

And the way I understand it if someone has the same character name and you want to whisper them you need to type the whole thing in. Correct me if I am wrong here.

If it works like CO (and it should) then you can turn off the displaying of the @name in your chat window.

[SelorKiith]

Just to jump in here... I would say you are not a role player. Little thing make a big difference in RPing.

I am a Role Player... I even tried to role play in WoW!
But I am able to make the World appear to my liking and if this needs to ignore anything besides the Char Name, then I'll do it and it is not very hard, selective view is very easy you don't even need to be concentrated for it ;)

[Peregrine_Falcon]

You are forgetting that in most MMOs a very small amount of players actually have anything to do with the forums. Do you really think that the "bad" players care what you think of them? Do you really think that this is in any way going to change anything?
It may not change them, but it will allow me to have better control over my gaming experience.

For example: Let's say I decide that I don't like what you post on the forums, I place you on ignore. Then in game some guy wants to team with me. I see that his name is Lt Smartallec@rogerwroten. So now I say to myself, "Oh hey self! That's that jacktard on the forums that I placed on ignore. I don't want to team with him."

Team request declined. And we both go happily our seperate ways. Problem solved before it even happens.

Look everyone, this isn't going to give your name address and social security number to everyone. One of the updates to City of Heroes/Villains last year gave people the ability to see your global name. People screamed about it on the forums. Violating their privacy, etc. What it really did was allow people like me to stay away from people that I'd had bad teaming experiences with in the past, even if they were on a different character.

Since I've been using that system to stay away from people that had annoyed me in the past my game play experience has improved.

Improving our ability to hold other people accountable for their actions only improves things, except for the jerks. The anonymity granted by the internet is something that game designers are learning to reduce. Cryptic isn't the only game company that is doing it. Why do they do it? Because it improves the gaming experience for most customers and makes griefing more difficult and easier for game companies to prevent or punish.

[rogerwroten]

If it works like CO (and it should) then you can turn off the displaying of the @name in your chat window.

I did not know that. Haven't even thought about playing CO. So...

I am a Role Player... I even tried to role play in WoW!
But I am able to make the World appear to my liking and if this needs to ignore anything besides the Char Name, then I'll do it and it is not very hard, selective view is very easy you don't even need to be concentrated for it ;)

To each his own I guess. I personally hated having to ignore things just to RP.

It may not change them, but it will allow me to have better control over my gaming experience.

For example: Let's say I decide that I don't like what you post on the forums, I place you on ignore. Then in game some guy wants to team with me. I see that his name is Lt Smartallec@rogerwroten. So now I say to myself, "Oh hey self! That's that jacktard on the forums that I placed on ignore. I don't want to team with him."

Team request declined. And we both go happily our seperate ways. Problem solved before it even happens.

Look everyone, this isn't going to give your name address and social security number to everyone. One of the updates to City of Heroes/Villains last year gave people the ability to see your global name. People screamed about it on the forums. Violating their privacy, etc. What it really did was allow people like me to stay away from people that I'd had bad teaming experiences with in the past, even if they were on a different character.

Since I've been using that system to stay away from people that had annoyed me in the past my game play experience has improved.

Improving our ability to hold other people accountable for their actions only improves things, except for the jerks. The anonymity granted by the internet is something that game designers are learning to reduce. Cryptic isn't the only game company that is doing it. Why do they do it? Because it improves the gaming experience for most customers and makes griefing more difficult and easier for game companies to prevent or punish.

You must have one heck of a memory then. And just to clear thing... This is all your opinion, right?

One last thing... How does this make griefing more difficult? Or easier for the gaming companies?

[spskeff2]

you know whats funny..and on second thought...i think once we all start to play this is really going to become a moot point.

I mean think about it. Gameplay and content is ultimately more important, right?

I just had to rethink my attitude on these "little things" a little more, especially after watching the footage of the gameplay video that Loekii also posted. I doubt we'll be talking about this 6-8 months from now unless it's REALLY a problem.

My take on the ID theft thing: Keep a strong password, change it often, update your virus/anti spyware def's, and don't go to any shady websites. Do these things, chance of ID theft is greatly reduced. It's part of everyday mantenance when using a computer.

[boz75]

I am personally finding some of these new trends for rules bizarre... I think I will be able to get round this in game in all honesty so I'm not going to go too negative but still... I can see why it would be an annoyance for a lot of people.

STO better be good lol.

[SelorKiith]

To each his own I guess. I personally hated having to ignore things just to RP.

I don't mind it... it is that living with ignoring things that can upset you does have an impact, you do it nearly automatically... I don't like beeing upset, I get upset very easy so... I started to love the small things that makes me smile and just ignore things like that or don't mind them...

[rogerwroten]

you know whats funny..and on second thought...i think once we all start to play this is really going to become a moot point.

I mean think about it. Gameplay and content is ultimately more important, right?

I just had to rethink my attitude on these "little things" a little more, especially after watching the footage of the gameplay video that Loekii also posted. I doubt we'll be talking about this 6-8 months from now unless it's REALLY a problem.

My take on the ID theft thing: Keep a strong password, change it often, update your virus/anti spyware def's, and don't go to any shady websites. Do these things, chance of ID theft is greatly reduced. It's part of everyday mantenance when using a computer.

LOL. The game may not even be released in 6-8 months. :D

[ransomwk]

So every character and ship I have will show an "@Thunder Child"?


cryptic, please review every reason so far presented regarding why this system should not be used, and underline them.

[Capt.Spade]

At first I was like "Oh crap!" as I was thinking that it would display the whole thing over your toons head.

But seeing now that it only appears in the chat box or when inspecting someone else's toon, I see this as a great thing. For one, as it has been stated, it would hopefully cut down on accidentally teaming up with someone you know who is out to ruin your game experience and two, you will be able to recognize a friend or fleet/clan/guild mate if they are using an alt and chatting.

IMO this is a good thing. Thanks Cryptic! :)

[Tamgros]

I have mixed opinions on the matter. On the one hand, Loekii could just make a new account name. I mean, if he wants no ties to his forum account while in game, then this shouldn't be a problem. The only thing he'd be missing out on is the 'envoy' system....

I also like having some accountability like many have mentioned. It's an interesting concept that we really haven't seen in many MMOs.

But then there is the privacy issue. Hmmm, maybe I should have waited to post until I have a more firm opinion. :o

[Flatfingers]

If Cryptic actually does this for STO, I approve.

Like others, I'm persuaded that the perception of anonymity is the key thing that makes people think they can behave like a TFJ (Total Flaming Jacktard) in a social environment and get away with it. If displaying a forum name -- which is already public information -- is shown for a character when detailed information about that character is specifically requested, I think that's great because it reduces anonymity by an appropriate amount. It's not a panacea, but some help is better than none.

(Although I will add that I think it's correct not to display our forum name in-game along with our character's name without the viewer taking some special action to see that forum name. That would hurt immersiveness.)

Having said that, I agree that if Cryptic knew they intended to do this, they were wrong not to inform us of it in Big Bold Letters on the page where we create our forum name. If when they opened this forum they didn't know they'd be linking character names to forum names, however, then I think we have to cut them some slack.

Still, if that’s the case, then it would be proper on Cryptic's part to allow existing forum users a one-time "renaming" option that allows us to change our forum name while retaining our post count and related linkages. Making something important retroactively is not good customer service.

More to come on this, no doubt.

--Flatfingers

[Loekii]

I think two things would solve this to my satisfaction:

Reset all Account Names

Ie next time you log in, you are asked to select a New Account name that is different than your forum name.
Thus insuring that your Account Name will not be displayed on the forums, nor the Game.

Add in a @Displayname

with Forum names locked to their user (they can use them or use another name).
Thus we can choose our existing forum names, or a new name that we want displayed in game.

[Peregrine_Falcon]

You must have one heck of a memory then. And just to clear thing... This is all your opinion, right?
Sorry, I should have mentioned one other portion of the system. In addition to allowing us to see other users global names, we also have the ability to give them a star rating and attach a note. This file is kept on our computers, so we are the only ones who can see the stars that we have given others and the notes that we've written about them. This allows me to 4 or 5 star people that are great teammates, and 1 or 2 star jerks and idiots. In the notes I add detailed info about them so as to assist my memory next time we meet.

One last thing... How does this make griefing more difficult? Or easier for the gaming companies?
Griefing is more difficult in two ways. One, everyone knows that everyone can see their global name and rate them as players. People are often more courteous because they know that if they're not they may find themselves unable to find people willing to team with them. Two, stealing stuff from guild houses (called Supergroup bases in CoH/V) is often done by a person with an alt which they would then delete. Now if they do that I can find out their global handle, kick other characters they may have out of the group so they can't do it again. And I can warn others about this person so that they can't do it to other guilds.

It makes it easier on the gaming companies because I believe that since people know they can be tracked by their global they just do less griefing period. This means less work for customer service. If someone does grief and I report them then I can report them by their global handle. The CS guys don't have to try to search for a specific character (and hope that I spelled the name right) on a specific server and then try to attach that to a specific account. They've got the global name when I make the report, so they immediately know which account was griefing.

[LordDave]

I take Identity theft as a serious issue.

Most people do, which is why its not 'overacting'.
Pfft. Your acting like knowing that your login name is Loekii, i can hack your account. Can I? No. Does it mean I don't have to guess your user name? Yeah. But really, if they can get your password, they already have your login name. How do you think WoW accounts get hacked? They have it hidden. Passwords are RARELY gotten by pure guessing. Usually they get it via keyloggers and other such programs. So really, the "They don't know my Login name" is a level of security that is breached at the same time your password is.
Unless you want to tell me how I can hack your account easier by just knowing your login name.


I think two things would solve this to my satisfaction:

Reset all Account Names

Ie next time you log in, you are asked to select a New Account name that is different than your forum name.
Thus insuring that your Account Name will not be displayed on the forums, nor the Game.

Add in a @Displayname

with Forum names locked to their user (they can use them or use another name).
Thus we can choose our existing forum names, or a new name that we want displayed in game.





Or you create an account when you buy the game and that becomes your new forum account. I mean... do you guys really think the forum is NOT going to be wiped once the game launches? I fully expect every post here to be deleted. Every user wiped. Everything.

[Tamgros]

[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

I think two things would solve this to my satisfaction:

Reset all Account Names

Ie next time you log in, you are asked to select a New Account name that is different than your forum name.
Thus insuring that your Account Name will not be displayed on the forums, nor the Game.

Add in a @Displayname

with Forum names locked to their user (they can use them or use another name).
Thus we can choose our existing forum names, or a new name that we want displayed in game.




They surely aren't going to do option 1. Our forum/account names are tied in with CO and are in use. Besides, I wouldn't want have to change or be vulnerable to someton stealing 'tamgros' :(

Option 2 I could see. Everyone could separate their STO account name and forum name, but they'd still be tied together administratively. This way we'd get to chose our @name and wouldn't necessarily have to use our forum name.

This could work, as long as they reserve the STO account names for the people who already have that forum name, because I'm sure that people would want to use the same one (like me).

This is a good balance of accountability and privacy IMO...

[LordDave]

[/COLOR]


They surely aren't going to do option 1. Our forum/account names are tied in with CO and are in use. Besides, I wouldn't want have to change or be vulnerable to someton stealing 'tamgros' :(

Option 2 I could see. Everyone could separate their STO account name and forum name, but they'd still be tied together administratively. This way we'd get to chose our @name and wouldn't necessarily have to use our forum name.

This could work, as long as they reserve the STO account names for the people who already have that forum name, because I'm sure that people would want to use the same one (like me).

This is a good balance of accountability and privacy IMO...[/QUOTE]

Unless they wipe the pre-release forum. I'm pretty sure they will.
CO forums? Wiped on Release Date.
STO Forums? Wiped on Release Date.

Probably....

[HittingSmoke]

I have mixed opinions on the matter. On the one hand, Loekii could just make a new account name. I mean, if he wants no ties to his forum account while in game, then this shouldn't be a problem. The only thing he'd be missing out on is the 'envoy' system....

I also like having some accountability like many have mentioned. It's an interesting concept that we really haven't seen in many MMOs.

But then there is the privacy issue. Hmmm, maybe I should have waited to post until I have a more firm opinion. :o

I agree. I think accountability linked from forums into the game world has been something too often overlooked in MMOG's over there years. I don't think there's any real merit to the argument of wanting to keep your forum persona and game person separate. There will be third party game forums for that. This is the STO forum, and if you don't want your actions in STO reflected on the forum of vice versa then don't post on the official boards.

As for wanting characters for "down time" away from friends and fleet, I can understand this. Hopefully there will be some sort of appear offline function that you can use on alts.

I don't think anyone should have to make a new forum account. We've all accumulated friends and posts that should be able to be tracked after launch if the boards aren't wiped. Maybe an option for people to reset forum names before launch with this new information. There could just be a small text footnote in the signature for X amount of time afterwards noting the old screen name to help avoid the confusion and name stealing that could stem from this.

The security issue would most definitely need to be addressed if people can readily get account names. This isn't an issue for me. My account name will be quite obvious, but I use very complex passwords which are impossible to guess so you wouldn't have much luck after obtaining it. This does bring the issue of password complexity which seems to be discouraged by MMOG's as of late. That's an issue for another thread though.

[DanSeale]

I agree. I think accountability linked from forums into the game world has been something too often overlooked in MMOG's over there years. I don't think there's any real merit to the argument of wanting to keep your forum persona and game person separate. There will be third party game forums for that. This is the STO forum, and if you don't want your actions in STO reflected on the forum of vice versa then don't post on the official boards.

As for wanting characters for "down time" away from friends and fleet, I can understand this. Hopefully there will be some sort of appear offline function that you can use on alts.

I don't think anyone should have to make a new forum account. We've all accumulated friends and posts that should be able to be tracked after launch if the boards aren't wiped. Maybe an option for people to reset forum names before launch with this new information. There could just be a small text footnote in the signature for X amount of time afterwards noting the old screen name to help avoid the confusion and name stealing that could stem from this.

The security issue would most definitely need to be addressed if people can readily get account names. This isn't an issue for me. My account name will be quite obvious, but I use very complex passwords which are impossible to guess so you wouldn't have much luck after obtaining it. This does bring the issue of password complexity which seems to be discouraged by MMOG's as of late. That's an issue for another thread though.

Ahhh .. now we're getting some where. Bwtween your post .. Flatfingers (and maybe a couple more) .. these hit the nail on the head !

this is where I agree most.

yet . there is still a part of me that like the idea of having the option of being "unknown" as it were.

Note: this is just my simple .. open .. honest opinion. Not ment to be taken as a flame against anyone.

[Meliagan]

Thanks to Loekii for this thread !

I use the same pseudo on all forums I am registered, to be clearly recognized in discussions.
I am also responsible of different MMO sections on a French MMORPG Portal. see my signature ;)
But I don't want to be recognized in game, because of this !!!
All I ask is the possibility to change this username now on my Cryptic account, that's a privacy question.
And I don't want to create an other second account, because I already engaged subscriptions on the main.

-> created a ticket on CO system : no answer...
-> and the system just disappeared today!!!!

Help and solution from Cryptic would be greatly appreciated :)

Et bonjour à tous depuis la France :)

[KODudna]

Hey Loekii, since you brought it up, and we can't decide what to feel about this, why don't you ask for an official response from the devs? Like in the next ask Cryptic or whatevs

[CrazyVulcan]

wait wait clarify this its you display name ie Captain Butters not account name **************** which i made difrent for security reasions :confused:

[Meliagan]

I think the big problem here is when your account name is the same than your username... Which occured when you registered early on the STO official site ;) Maybe also other cases when you choose the same account name and username for x reasons :(

Anyway, all I see when I play CO is: @myusername :eek:


EDIT !!!!

Just logged on my CO account and had a response from the CSR to change it
So thanks Cryptic !!!
Conclusion : Just create a ticket to explain why you don't want @username in game !

[AtomicNerd]

People are talking about “accountability” like it means people won’t say “mean things” now. That’s not how it works. If you have an opinion, any opinion someone doesn’t like they might target your ship over it. Their whole fleet might. Not because you acted like a “jack tard” but because you thought something someone else didn’t and said it on a forum where that kind of thing was invited; and now instead of taking a differing point of view they can now make you pay in game; even if you were right. In fact the people who lose arguments on merit will have the most motivation to find a different way to settle it.

“Accountability” like this doesn’t mean “good people” are rewarded and the “bad guys” are punished. In this case it just means all the people who got mad about (insert anything you can think of here) can know who to target for not thinking the same way.

This isn’t an anti-“jack tard” measure; it’s handing them a premade hit list at launch.

Keep in mind “Peregrine-Falcon” you have a thread called “The biggest fans = the worst problems for Star Trek Online” and a link to it as your signature. You really can’t take a short walk with me to imagination land and see any way that could haunt you in star trek online? Like where there might be 50,000 hard core trekkies all in one big happy server together. And any fleet you join gets to take that thread with them to. I’ve rubber a few people the wrong way but you’ve actually insulted the most obsessive members of the already often unbalanced community. If there was anyone on this forum who should be able to see the merit in the “glass houses” end of this debate it should be you. And I say this with no strong opinion on the actual thread it’s self.

Even just having a name like “the fresh Jedi” could cause some of the same grief because he might have picked the name as a joke or at least might not have wanted to bring it with him to the game when it’s going up against SWTOR.

[rogerwroten]

Sorry, I should have mentioned one other portion of the system. In addition to allowing us to see other users global names, we also have the ability to give them a star rating and attach a note. This file is kept on our computers, so we are the only ones who can see the stars that we have given others and the notes that we've written about them. This allows me to 4 or 5 star people that are great teammates, and 1 or 2 star jerks and idiots. In the notes I add detailed info about them so as to assist my memory next time we meet.


Griefing is more difficult in two ways. One, everyone knows that everyone can see their global name and rate them as players. People are often more courteous because they know that if they're not they may find themselves unable to find people willing to team with them. Two, stealing stuff from guild houses (called Supergroup bases in CoH/V) is often done by a person with an alt which they would then delete. Now if they do that I can find out their global handle, kick other characters they may have out of the group so they can't do it again. And I can warn others about this person so that they can't do it to other guilds.

It makes it easier on the gaming companies because I believe that since people know they can be tracked by their global they just do less griefing period. This means less work for customer service. If someone does grief and I report them then I can report them by their global handle. The CS guys don't have to try to search for a specific character (and hope that I spelled the name right) on a specific server and then try to attach that to a specific account. They've got the global name when I make the report, so they immediately know which account was griefing.

I see your first point. Adding a score wouldn't be too bad.

But I have ti disagree on the rest. If someone is going to be a Jerk, they are going to be a Jerk!

I don't see it being any easier than it is now. The gaming company already knows everything they need to know if they have a name. Since each name is attached to an account even with the old system.

[Archangelwoghd]

Sorry, I should have mentioned one other portion of the system. In addition to allowing us to see other users global names, we also have the ability to give them a star rating and attach a note. This file is kept on our computers, so we are the only ones who can see the stars that we have given others and the notes that we've written about them. This allows me to 4 or 5 star people that are great teammates, and 1 or 2 star jerks and idiots. In the notes I add detailed info about them so as to assist my memory next time we meet.


Griefing is more difficult in two ways. One, everyone knows that everyone can see their global name and rate them as players. People are often more courteous because they know that if they're not they may find themselves unable to find people willing to team with them. Two, stealing stuff from guild houses (called Supergroup bases in CoH/V) is often done by a person with an alt which they would then delete. Now if they do that I can find out their global handle, kick other characters they may have out of the group so they can't do it again. And I can warn others about this person so that they can't do it to other guilds.

It makes it easier on the gaming companies because I believe that since people know they can be tracked by their global they just do less griefing period. This means less work for customer service. If someone does grief and I report them then I can report them by their global handle. The CS guys don't have to try to search for a specific character (and hope that I spelled the name right) on a specific server and then try to attach that to a specific account. They've got the global name when I make the report, so they immediately know which account was griefing.


You are right on the money. This (in addition to the ignore features Cryptic says they will be using) will go a long way toward giving the griefers a kick in the pants. I like it.

[Loekii]

wait wait clarify this its you display name ie Captain Butters not account name **************** which i made difrent for security reasions :confused:

All your toons will appear with @Captain_Butters as their tag (in searches, Chats, and in Inspections).

So in STO, lets say you name your toon - 'Zander'. When you say something in Chat, it will read:

[Zander@Captain_Butters] - anyone looking to a Tactical officer for Seti Prime Mission?




EDIT !!!!

Just logged on my CO account and had a response from the CSR to change it

So thanks Cryptic !!!

Conclusion : Just create a ticket to explain why you don't want @username in game !

So did they ask you what you wanted to change it to, and then changed it?

And is this just your Displayname, or did they change your account name as well?

[CrazyVulcan]

All your toons will appear with @Captain_Butters as their tag (in searches, Chats, and in Inspections).

So in STO, lets say you name your toon - 'Zander'. When you say something in Chat, it will read:

[Zander@Captain_Butters] - anyone looking to a Tactical officer for Seti Prime Mission?


ok good thanks loekii

[Loekii]

ok good thanks loekii

Just out of curiosity, how would you have felt if it was actually your account name instead? This is the issue that some people are facing.

[CrazyVulcan]

Just out of curiosity, how would you have felt if it was actually your account name instead? This is the issue that some people are facing.


:mad: HULK SMASH :mad:

somthhing like that :D

[Peregrine_Falcon]

Keep in mind “Peregrine-Falcon” you have a thread called “The biggest fans = the worst problems for Star Trek Online” and a link to it as your signature. You really can’t take a short walk with me to imagination land and see any way that could haunt you in star trek online?
Sure I can! It means that all of the die hard trekkies who are all offended at me because they feel that the Federation is a wacky liberal peace love joy joy with gummy bears on top utopia will see my global name in game and deliberately decide not to team with me.

And won't that just break my heart?

Now where's that button that let's me put a 10 foot tall smiley into my post?

[Loekii]

:mad: HULK SMASH :mad:

somthhing like that :D

Lol. :D

Sort of how I feel when I consider the expose to risk this creates.

[OddjobXL]

Falcon makes a good point. Based on previous polls the majority of players won't even be doing much PvP in STO so the worst that can happen to most folks is that nobody, in the know at least - that itself is likely a minority, wants to group with them.

That's a good start.

[Gideon]

Not every die hard trekkie sees the "...Federation [as] a wacky liberal peace love joy joy with gummy bears on top utopia..." I bet Kirk wouldn't either ;).

[Loekii]

Falcon makes a good point. Based on previous polls the majority of players won't even be doing much PvP in STO so the worst that can happen to most folks is that nobody, in the know at least - that itself is likely a minority, wants to group with them.

That's a good start.

Well apparently you can change your display name via CS, so that gives trolls a great out, but again, punishes the good members of the community.

And again, given the very small number of trolls on this forum -- i would say the are not any -- I don't see any bang for the buck regardless. Any real trolls can avoid the system, it really doesn't do much to stop them.

[Gideon]

Well apparently you can change your display name via CS, so that gives trolls a great out, but again, punishes the good members of the community.

I think I recall them saying they'd only change it if your account name was the same as your forum/display name.

[Loekii]

I think I recall them saying they'd only change it if your account name was the same as your forum/display name.

Even worse, because if your @name does not match your forum name, that means your forum name = your account name. :(

Again, it is very depressing that they did not see this issue when they decided to create this system. It suggests that Cryptic Security is rather lax, which should cause people to be even more concerned about identity theft.

It's like going to gym that posts your Social Security number as your 'membership number' :(.

I need to hire Luis Black (the comedian) to explain this better. :mad:

[Gideon]

Even worse, because if your @name does not match your forum name, that means your forum name = your account name. :(

In this case I'd still email them. I bet they'd change it to help protect the account. I think they were refering to situations where people just wanted to change their display name for no other reason than to change it.

[AtomicNerd]

Sure I can! It means that all of the die hard trekkies who are all offended at me because they feel that the Federation is a wacky liberal peace love joy joy with gummy bears on top utopia will see my global name in game and deliberately decide not to team with me.

And won't that just break my heart?

Now where's that button that let's me put a 10 foot tall smiley into my post?

That’s your worst case scenario in a game of possibly thousands where the majority might be obsessed trekkies?

You really think not teaming with you is the worst thing ingame pariahs have to be concerned about?

When people talk about griefing they don’t mean quietly ignoring people; and a lot of what is effectively griefing doesn’t break any rule. People who want to make your game playing experience miserable can always find ways to do it, especially if you’re someone who’s effectively spit in the face of the community at large. You don’t need to be friends with everyone but if you’ve made a thousand enemies before the game is even in beta the blowback may be a bit worse than you’re imagining right now.

I really just don’t think you’re taking the long view here.

[TFO_KillSwitch]

hence. y i allways use one name. tfo killswitch
my gamer name my tage in all games

[CrazyVulcan]

I need to hire Luis Black (the comedian) to explain this better.

i LOVE him but yes i see your point

[Meliagan]

So did they ask you what you wanted to change it to, and then changed it?
And is this just your Displayname, or did they change your account name as well?


Yes they ask me 3 new possible usernames, and i suppose they will pick one
no other info ATM.
Just waiting now...

[rogerwroten]

Even worse, because if your @name does not match your forum name, that means your forum name = your account name. :(

Again, it is very depressing that they did not see this issue when they decided to create this system. It suggests that Cryptic Security is rather lax, which should cause people to be even more concerned about identity theft.

It's like going to gym that posts your Social Security number as your 'membership number' :(.

I need to hire Luis Black (the comedian) to explain this better. :mad:

Or like the state I am from at one point used your social security number as your drivers license number. How smart is that?

[stargazer1]

It's one thing to have a global name in a drop down menu which other players can see when they left click on you, but it's another to have that global name appear over your head (if I'm understanding the debate). It would ruin the immersiveness of the game.

[LordDave]

It's like going to gym that posts your Social Security number as your 'membership number' :(.
No it isn't.
It's more like giving someone your forum name in a forum that requires a login name and password.

Ok, let's look at the REAL security issue shall we?
You and everyone else here are afraid that someone will hack into your account, steal your credit card #, change your e-mail, and do other odd stuff.

1. They can't steal the credit card number. When was the last time you logged into a game and it displayed your full credit card # in your account? Every time I do that (even with non-games) I get ******-*****-(last 4 digits), which is worthless.
Home address.... ok, that ones there. But since knowing the address only really helps for physical stalking, it's pointless.

2. Change your e-mail. Yes, yes they can. Then they can get your password reset and lock you out of the account. Then they can impersonate you on the forum and in the game. Then you call tech support and the account get's locked.

3. Odd stuff....
Yeah and?

That's the security issue I see and, frankly, it's a wimpy one. Your more likely to get a keylogger installed on your computer then you are of someone caring about hacking your account and making you say stupid things on the forum.

[LordDave]

It's one thing to have a global name in a drop down menu which other players can see when they left click on you, but it's another to have that global name appear over your head (if I'm understanding the debate). It would ruin the immersiveness of the game.

It won't appear over your head.

[Varrangian]

It won't appear over your head.

Correct, it appears in the chat box and it appears if I click on a character to get more information about them, but it does not appear over your head.

[terranova3y2]

lol there will probably be some kind of MT solution to change your handle name :P

Change handle name - 20 Cryptic Bucks

Hide Handle name for 30 days - 30 Cryptic Bucks

The look on your face when you realise you've been duped into using MT - Priceless

For everything else, theres Mastercard...

*cough*

I guess you could really just make a new forum account if you really didn't want people to see your forum name on the end. I don't agree with the system but doesn't look like it will change.

[Swordopolis]

Correct, it appears in the chat box and it appears if I click on a character to get more information about them, but it does not appear over your head.

This is how it should be. :)

[Varrangian]

This is how it should be. :)

Well that is how it works in CO currently.

[Swordopolis]

Well that is how it works in CO currently.

Then, that is a good sign. :)

[Loekii]

That's the security issue I see and, frankly, it's a wimpy one.

Dave, its great that you have this opinion, but that doesn't change the fact that we are talking about personal information that people do not want to be easily available.

You may not care that this information is public, but that only applies to YOUR account. When dealing with other peoples accounts, you have zero say. Its their personal information, not yours. Its their headache if their information is compromised, not yours. So in this case, its not about 'opinion', but rather about providing security to their customers. Security in personal information is not something that you treat lightly and willy nilly.

When it comes to my personal information, I don't care how 'you' feel about. What matters is that I feel secure about it. And in this case Cryptic has seriously dropped the ball.

[dgriffis]

When it comes to my personal information, I don't care how 'you' feel about. What matters is that I feel secure about it. And in this case Cryptic has seriously dropped the ball.



Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

[Loekii]

Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

It is just upsetting that this is the solution, rather than having this done properly.

Sort of like, well you can just open a new bank account, to correct the mistake of the Bank publicizing your account on their website. :(

[Anichent]

Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

Yeah except we shouldn't have to do that. Even if it's not a security thing, it sounds pretty dumb to me.

[Varrangian]

Seriously you people are becoming professional at making a mountains out of molehills. If you honestly believe these are such horrendous issues. Walk away and don't ever give Cryptic your money or come back to their sites. That is the only way to deal with business practices you do not agree with.

[Anichent]

Seriously you people are becoming professional at making a mountains out of molehills. If you honestly believe these are such horrendous issues. Walk away and don't ever give Cryptic your money or come back to their sites. That is the only way to deal with business practices you do not agree with.

We are customers, they are trying to get us to buy their product. We have every right to ask for certain things and express our desires for something we must buy.

Cryptic is not providing a "service", its a product. So the "shut and and be happy they are doing this for us" view doesn't hold up.

We are allowed to criticize Cryptic, without blind loyalty. Personally I don't think it's a big deal, but I agree it's unfair and seems uneccessary.

[dru_mcd]

Could someone please explain what the big frackin' deal is?
If my user name is Noobkilla@dru_mcd - so what?
How is that anymore a security risk than loging on to the STO Forum?

[Varrangian]

We are customers, they are trying to get us to buy their product. We have every right to ask for certain things and express our desires for something we must buy.

Cryptic is not providing a "service", its a product. So the "shut and and be happy they are doing this for us" view doesn't hold up.

We are allowed to criticize Cryptic, without blind loyalty. Personally I don't think it's a big deal, but I agree it's unfair and seems uneccessary.

I'm not telling you to shut up and be happy. You've made it clear this has made you unhappy. Is there really any more you can do?

What you can do that will speak louder than your now repetitive words is tell them you are taking your dollars and walking.

That is what I would do if I felt as vehemently as you all claim to.

[LordDave]

Dave, its great that you have this opinion, but that doesn't change the fact that we are talking about personal information that people do not want to be easily available.

You may not care that this information is public, but that only applies to YOUR account. When dealing with other peoples accounts, you have zero say. Its their personal information, not yours. Its their headache if their information is compromised, not yours. So in this case, its not about 'opinion', but rather about providing security to their customers. Security in personal information is not something that you treat lightly and willy nilly.

When it comes to my personal information, I don't care how 'you' feel about. What matters is that I feel secure about it. And in this case Cryptic has seriously dropped the ball.


So your telling me that your user name is personal to you?
Why do you even post on forums then? Your showing us your personal information by posting.
The ONLY difference between a forum account and a Game account is... what?

[ransomwk]

Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

I hope I don't come off rude saying this, I'm in a customer service position myself and I can't stand people getting on my case about things I can't affect....but;

What you're suggesting is like putting a bandage on a broken arm, it'll stop any bleeding, but the arm is still broken.

Making a new forum account would prevent loss of personal information, but the system is still broken.

[LordDave]

It is just upsetting that this is the solution, rather than having this done properly.

Sort of like, well you can just open a new bank account, to correct the mistake of the Bank publicizing your account on their website. :(


That's kinda what they do. When your account is compromised, they remove it and give you a new one.

[Eumerin]

The name system makes sending /tells in Champions Online somewhat different. You can't just type /tell "Character_Name". That returns a "No such player" error. Instead when you type someone's name in for a /tell, it generates a drop-down list of names on-server that match the name you selected. You select the name for the person you want, and it automatically fills that name in for the /tell. I would imagine that you could also just type out the full character_name@account_name thing, but the one time I tried to do that I didn't realize that you also needed to add a comma after the name and got the "No such player" error.

I suppose creating a new account with the name 'Blood Wraith' might be a way to get around the odd restriction on that name in Champions... (It was the name of my original City of Heroes character, and for some reason it's disallowed due to the naming policy!)

On a note that's more serious than that last paragraph, I find the broadcasting of the account name in chat to be somewhat distracting. I don't mind making the information available if someone really wants to look. But I think that it would be better to remove the account name from the chat windows. If someone's curious about who you are, let them find out by inspecting you.

[ransomwk]

So your telling me that your user name is personal to you?
Why do you even post on forums then? Your showing us your personal information by posting.
The ONLY difference between a forum account and a Game account is... what?

One provides access to my money, the other does not.

[codeminer]

Could someone please explain what the big frackin' deal is?
If my user name is Noobkilla@dru_mcd - so what?
How is that anymore a security risk than loging on to the STO Forum?

The security threat is small. I suppose it could make it easier for someone observing you in game to track you to your account and try to hack it. At the very least, a griefer could lock you out of your account at inconvenient times.

Or grief you in the forums. Sure they could get banned, but the smart ones will probably create new accounts to do so.

Minor problem, but yah, not a very wise move by Cryptic.

[codeminer]

I'm not telling you to shut up and be happy. You've made it clear this has made you unhappy. Is there really any more you can do?

What you can do that will speak louder than your now repetitive words is tell them you are taking your dollars and walking.

That is what I would do if I felt as vehemently as you all claim to.

Actually, the best way to handle this is to post complaints in the forums, repetitively and in numbers, in the hopes of changing Cryptic's thinking.

THEN, if that doesn't work, you walk away with your monies.

[dru_mcd]

Could someone please explain what the big frackin' deal is?
If my user name is Noobkilla@dru_mcd - so what?
How is that anymore a security risk than loging on to the STO Forum?

So your telling me that your user name is personal to you?
Why do you even post on forums then? Your showing us your personal information by posting.
The ONLY difference between a forum account and a Game account is... what?

That's my question - where is the security risk here?
Please elaborate.

[LordDave]

One provides access to my money, the other does not.

.... how? Because you're paying for the month access that they just hacked?

[Varrangian]

Actually, the best way to handle this is to post complaints in the forums, repetitively and in numbers, in the hopes of changing Cryptic's thinking.

THEN, if that doesn't work, you walk away with your monies.

Well considering the post by Gozer, I got the impression they don't intend to change things, hence my suggestion of taking your money and walking if the issue is that important to you.

[Varrangian]

So your telling me that your user name is personal to you?
Why do you even post on forums then? Your showing us your personal information by posting.
The ONLY difference between a forum account and a Game account is... what?

I could be wrong, but aren't your account names and forum names that same over at SOE ever since they made it so you can't post in their forums without an SOE account, so aside from the fact that the name is now attached to a character in Cryptic games, nothing is new.

I mean if I log into SOE's forums and realize that my name is the same as my account, I've just figured out that every poster in the forum is displaying their account name.

[codeminer]

Well considering the post by Gozer, I got the impression they don't intend to change things, hence my suggestion of taking your money and walking if the issue is that important to you.

Hehe, well, I suppose it would take a bit more than a day and 163 posts to change Cryptic's mind. :D

[Varrangian]

Hehe, well, I suppose it would take a bit more than a day and 163 posts to change Cryptic's mind. :D

This is about the fourth or fifth thread about this in one way or another in the last 3 weeks at least.

[Loekii]

The security threat is small. I suppose it could make it easier for someone observing you in game to track you to your account and try to hack it. At the very least, a griefer could lock you out of your account at inconvenient times.

Or grief you in the forums. Sure they could get banned, but the smart ones will probably create new accounts to do so.

Minor problem, but yah, not a very wise move by Cryptic.

When it comes to personal information, there really is no 'small' issue, especially when it privacy should have been the the first priority when dealing with Account information.

Again, I am completely shocked that no one said - 'What about the people that have the same Forum handle and Account Name? Maybe we should make sure that Game Accounts are completely independent and private.'

[dru_mcd]

When it comes to personal information, there really is no 'small' issue, especially when it privacy should have been the the first priority when dealing with Account information.

Again, I am completely shocked that no one said - 'What about the people that have the same Forum handle and Account Name? Maybe we should make sure that Game Accounts are completely independent and private.'

So, if I'm understanding this correctly - access to one accout (STO Forum) gives access to multiple accouts (any in-game accouts)?

Is this what the concern is?

[codeminer]

This is about the fourth or fifth thread about this in one way or another in the last 3 weeks at least.

I tell ya, the search function on this board is sub-par. I only got 2 hits on this topic, and one didn't even have any posts.

Not that I doubt you. :D

But mostly I was just trying to be funny. With who knows how many posts on MT's alone (no post about MT's please, not trying to start another argument here :o ), and AFAIK, there is no word from Cryptic about it, changing their minds on anything could take 100,000 posts? 1 million posts? :eek:

[ransomwk]

.... how? Because you're paying for the month access that they just hacked?

A game account has a name, address, and credit card so that cryptic can get paid.

A forum account has a name, maybe a fake one, the forum doesn't know or care.

[loyaltrekie]

I don't know how Cryptic intends to put themselves out there as one of the leading developers with such an amateur mistake. Honestly, I don't even see how no one stood up in this board meeting and went; "Uh maybe users won't really like this". With the overwhelming response of WTF, awful, and down right a mistake; you would think they would start building trust with their potential user base and fix issues that are there even before the game is released. If a developer can't get issues like this out of the way, I have no faith in their ability to do so post-release.

[Varrangian]

I tell ya, the search function on this board is sub-par. I only got 2 hits on this topic, and one didn't even have any posts.

Not that I doubt you. :D

But mostly I was just trying to be funny. With who knows how posts on MT's alone (no post about MT's please, not trying to start another argument here :o ), and AFAIK, there is no word from Cryptic about it, changing their minds on anything could take 100,000 posts? :eek:

Oh I understand posting, but in my experience one post with money (or really lack there of) behind is worth 100,000 posts.

People are always entitled to their opinion. It is how they present that opinion that matters and that they realize that their dollars are more important than their words. I feel like too often we blame corporations for "abusing" us, but then grudgingly give them our money. I just want people to realize that as long as they still get our money they will likely careless about our words. So I'm suggesting backing the talk up.

[USS_Parallax]

I honestly don't really care.

[Suiko]

Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

Ok, but what about that event Cryptic held a while back that everyone who created an account got a special game title as long as that forum account was created by May 2009 I believe.

If we created a new account now like you say for our game name, how will that tie back to our older accounts so we can still get that title?

Edit: Spelling

[Loekii]

So, if I'm understanding this correctly - access to one accout (STO Forum) gives access to multiple accouts (any in-game accouts)?

Is this what the concern is?

The issue is that some people created their Forum accounts with the same name as their Forum handle (because there was nothing saying it would be your game account as well).

Lets say you were one of them:

Forum Acccount = dru_mcd
Forum Handle = dru_mcd
Game Account = dur_mcd


So we now know your Game account name, which is one step closer to getting it hacked (just have to get the correct password). Most companies take precautions to not publicly display your Account name, for this specific reason.

[codeminer]

When it comes to personal information, there really is no 'small' issue, especially when it privacy should have been the the first priority when dealing with Account information.

Again, I am completely shocked that no one said - 'What about the people that have the same Forum handle and Account Name? Maybe we should make sure that Game Accounts are completely independent and private.'

I meant 'small' in that hacking your account is very low probability. Unless you chose your password to be '1234'.

Or you somehow got a keylogger on your comp, but then you'd have much more serious problems than this one MMORPG account. :(

But I do agree with you that privacy is very personal and very important in addition to my earlier mentioning of griefers.

[USS_Parallax]

Okay but that still gets you nowhere. If they can hack your password they'll have your account name too. It's not exactly "one step closer" because if they can hack one they can hack the other with it without any real additional work. :p

And my forum account and forum name are different. :)

[codeminer]

Oh I understand posting, but in my experience one post with money (or really lack there of) behind is worth 100,000 posts.

People are always entitled to their opinion. It is how they present that opinion that matters and that they realize that their dollars are more important than their words. I feel like too often we blame corporations for "abusing" us, but then grudgingly give them our money. I just want people to realize that as long as they still get our money they will likely careless about our words. So I'm suggesting backing the talk up.

Agreed. :D

[codeminer]

Ya know?

It just occured to me. I remember playing CoH/V, which Cryptic had a hand in, and you eventually got a global handle associated with all your characters in the account.

AND, you even got 1 free global handle name change when they first implemented it.

I don't see any reasone why Cryptic couldn't easily resolve this by doing the same.

[LordDave]

A game account has a name, address, and credit card so that cryptic can get paid.

A forum account has a name, maybe a fake one, the forum doesn't know or care.
Name? Yes. -could be faked though.
Address? Yes. - Can also be faked.
Credit Card info? No.
Never seen any site that had the credit card # listed in the user's control panel.

[KCHii]

Why not force every forum account user to verify their forum account using their in-game accounts, but give them an option to hide their in-game account names on the forum? That way, privacy remains in control of the user, whilst the moderators will still able to track down abusers and enforce the rules appropriately.

[Elboulevardo]

Or.. you could just create a new forum account and never post or tell anyone what it is.. Once you get your account keys just apply them to your shiny new forum account... :)

no offense but this is quite possibly the worst answer i've ever heard from a cryptic team member since i've been following this game

It's all databases and indexing, im quite sure the talented group at Cryptic can devise a way to make the display naming not so, well, gawdy!

Loekii's suggestion makes a lot of sense...this "solution" to create a new forum account is only going to double and possibly triple the registered accounts in the forum database...i cant see how that helps anything...but i guess thats a lot easier on the devs than changing the structure of game account database.

i think the key point is that people had no idea that their forum names would be forcibly tied to their game account/display name

but thats just my opinion

[Varrangian]

Name? Yes. -could be faked though.
Address? Yes. - Can also be faked.
Credit Card info? No.
Never seen any site that had the credit card # listed in the user's control panel.

While SOE's is not in the User control panel of the forums, you can click to "My Account" from the forums and "manage my subscriptions" or something like that which can take you to CC info, but even then only the last 4 digits are visible and the CVV number is not filled in.

[Loekii]

Ya know?

It just occurred to me. I remember playing CoH/V, which Cryptic had a hand in, and you eventually got a global handle associated with all your characters in the account.

AND, you even got 1 free global handle name change when they first implemented it.

I don't see any reason why Cryptic couldn't easily resolve this by doing the same.

It is one approach.

What they should have done -- and still should do -- , is simply required a Different Game Account Name, separate from your User Forum Name.

They should offer current posters the ability to create a new GAME ACCOUNT name.

[loyaltrekie]

no offense but this is quite possibly the worst answer i've ever heard from a dev since i've been following ANY software product.



^Added a quick correction for clarity.

[dru_mcd]

The issue is that some people created their Forum accounts with the same name as their Forum handle (because there was nothing saying it would be your game account as well).

Lets say you were one of them:

Forum Acccount = dru_mcd
Forum Handle = dru_mcd
Game Account = dru_mcd


So we now know your Game account name, which is one step closer to getting it hacked (just have to get the correct password). Most companies take precautions to not publicly display your Account name, for this specific reason.

Ok I understand that, but how is this different than any other online account? You have an account name and password. So you'll see it flying in high orbit around Planet X but what's the problem here?

Loekii, can you or someone else give me an equivalent example where this is a real problem or maybe a link to a website that can explain it better - anybody?

I'm really trying to understand the concern here.

[Elboulevardo]

^Added a quick correction for clarity.

lol good one...disappointing too

[Swordopolis]

EDIT: Misread the quote, comment deleted

[Varrangian]

Ok I understand that, but how is this different than any other online account? You have an account name and password. So you'll see it flying in high orbit around Planet X but what's the problem here?

Loekii, can you or someone else give me an equivalent example where this is a real problem or maybe a link to a website that can explain it better - anybody?

I'm really trying to understand the concern here.

I believe loekii's concern is this.

If I create a character named Tim Forny

When I type in chat in STO it will appear as Tim Forny@Varrangian. This will be the case for all my characters.

When you forum name = game account name might use that to hack your account. I tend to disagree, but I believe this is the main concern Loekii has.

[Loekii]

Ok I understand that, but how is this different than any other online account? You have an account name and password. So you'll see it flying in high orbit around Planet X but what's the problem here?

Loekii, can you or someone else give me an equivalent example where this is a real problem or maybe a link to a website that can explain it better - anybody?

I'm really trying to understand the concern here.

Normally, you Game Account name is secret, and not displayed. It is like this:

Forum Acccount = dru_mcd
Forum Handle = dru_mcd
Game Account = Spacerted


So no where is the name 'Spacerted' posted, nor associated to your forum and toon names. It is completely private.

So if I was a hacker, I would have to guess both your account name and your password.

With Cryptic, they are giving me your Account name (on the forums and in game), so all I need to guess is the password. They have basically done 50% of the Hackers work for them.

[loyaltrekie]

I believe loekii's concern is this.

If I create a character named Tim Forny

When I type in chat in STO it will appear as Tim Forny@Varrangian. This will be the case for all my characters.

When you forum name = game account name might use that to hack your account. I tend to disagree, but I believe this is the main concern Loekii has.

I don't know if its just me or not; but doesn't the whole @system just seem tacky and "amature-ish"? Something that a F2P indie developer with 5k subs would do; rather then a company that will most likely bring in the hundreds of thousands?

[Loekii]

Anybody truly concerned about account security would have done so on their own in the first place. To not do so and then cry foul later....

The issue is that option is not provided.

The way it works is the game automatically uses your Forum Account as your Game account -- So you cannot 'change' it.

Many people have the same name for their Forum Account and Forum names, as we were never told that it would become our Game account.

As stated above by Thunder, there is a difference between forum privacy and game privacy.

What Cryptic should have done is either:

Create a Separate Game Account Name, like other games
or
Have everyone reset their 'Forum Account' Names to a non-public Name -- as it was Cryptic's own mistake/error that has created this issue.

[Varrangian]

I don't know if its just me or not; but doesn't the whole @system just seem tacky and D- level developer? Something that a F2P indie developer with 5k subs would do; rather then a company that will most likely bring in the hundreds of thousands?

Doesn't seem to bother most people in CO. It is away of allowing players to have the same character names, and associate one player with all their characters.

[dru_mcd]

Normally, you Game Account name is secret, and not displayed. It is like this:

Forum Acccount = dru_mcd
Forum Handle = dru_mcd
Game Account = Spacerted


So no where is the name 'Spacerted' posted, nor associated to your forum and toon names. It is completely private.

So if I was a hacker, I would have to guess both your account name and your password.

With Cryptic, they are giving me your Account name (on the forums and in game), so all I need to guess is the password. They have basically done 50% of the Hackers work for them.


So, what you're saying is that this is equvalent to someone seeing your credit card bill or bank statement and having your account number?

[loyaltrekie]

Doesn't seem to bother most people in CO. It is away of allowing players to have the same character names, and associate one player with all their characters.

Considering this same thread is on CO's forums; I would disagree.

[LordDave]

So, what you're saying is that this is equvalent to someone seeing your credit card bill or bank statement and having your account number?

No.
It's equivalent to someone seeing the bank you have your money at and then having to guess your bank account #.

[Varrangian]

So, what you're saying is that this is equvalent to someone seeing your credit card bill or bank statement and having your account number?

Well if Loekii were suggesting that it would be rather hyperbolic. The fact of the matter is that most MMO's use your account name as your forum name, they simply do not connect the two in the game world.

But in reality if I have an account and notice that my names are the same in both, I suddenly "secretly" know the account names of most people on the forums.

But again, as LordDave has pointed out, the more likely issue is key loggers, because they can get your password (the important part), and if they can log you're password you can bet they logged your account name as well regardless of if it is the same as your forum name or not.

[Loekii]

So, what you're saying is that this is equvalent to someone seeing your credit card bill or bank statement and having your account number?

More like a company that is supposed to keep that private, letting your account number be seen by other people.

[Varrangian]

Considering this same thread is on CO's forums; I would disagree.

I'm talking about in game... :rolleyes: I don't see people in game having a problem with it.

[codeminer]

Ok I understand that, but how is this different than any other online account? You have an account name and password. So you'll see it flying in high orbit around Planet X but what's the problem here?

Loekii, can you or someone else give me an equivalent example where this is a real problem or maybe a link to a website that can explain it better - anybody?

I'm really trying to understand the concern here.

Normally, you Game Account name is secret, and not displayed. It is like this:

Forum Acccount = dru_mcd
Forum Handle = dru_mcd
Game Account = Spacerted


So no where is it 'Spacerted' posted, nor associated to your forum and toon names. It is completely private.

So if I was a hacker, I would have to guess both your account name and your password.

With Cryptic, they are giving me your Account name (on the forums and in game), so all I need to guess is the password. They have basically done 50% of the Hackers work for them.


In addition, the point I was trying to make about griefing; you school someone in PvP and they nerdrage and after you log off, they start typing in passwords into your account name, not necessarily trying to hack it, but to annoy you by locking you out. Not sure how Cryptic will implement their account security, but most companies lock you out of the account for a time after X amount of unsuccessful attempts.

Or, could be a convenient way to prevent some of your rivals from defending some turf in contested areas during critical times perhaps. :eek:

[Loekii]

Well if Loekii were suggesting that it would be rather hyperbolic. The fact of the matter is that most MMO's use your account name as your forum name, they simply do not connect the two in the game world.

But in reality if I have an account and notice that my names are the same in both, I suddenly "secretly" know the account names of most people on the forums.

But again, as LordDave has pointed out, the more likely issue is key loggers, because they can get your password (the important part), and if they can log you're password you can bet they logged your account name as well regardless of if it is the same as your forum name or not.

If it were such a 'non-issue', why would they have a separate account name, and simply not just make your forum handle your account name across the board.

Again, its about proper level of protection of personal information. Identity theft is a big deal for many people, so they expect better safe guards.

The argument to 'down play' it is just improper. We are not talking about game mechanics, we are talking about real life information that can be costly to people if it gets into the wrong hands. It doesn't take much for identity theft to occur. Those that had to deal with it, do not care to be so flippant about their personal information.

Cryptic is obligated to protect personal information, and should have know better than this.

[Swordopolis]

In addition, the point I was trying to make about griefing; you school someone in PvP and they nerdrage and after you log off, they start typing in passwords into your account name, not necessarily trying to hack it, but to annoy you by locking you out. Not sure how Cryptic will implement their account security, but most companies lock you account of the account for a time after X amount of unsuccessful attempts.

Or, could be a convenient way to prevent some of your rivals from defending some turf in contested areas during critical times perhaps. :eek:

Treat attempts from different IP addresses separately.

[Varrangian]

In addition, the point I was trying to make about griefing; you school someone in PvP and they nerdrage and after you log off, they start typing in passwords into your account name, not necessarily trying to hack it, but to annoy you by locking you out. Not sure how Cryptic will implement their account security, but most companies lock you account of the account for a time after X amount of unsuccessful attempts.

Or, could be a convenient way to prevent some of your rivals from defending some turf in contested areas during critical times perhaps. :eek:

They lock you out after five currently (they had a forum issue recently that did this by accident). But you also receive an email stating what has happened. If you were not trying to log into your account I'd bet you'd let them know pretty quick. Like if my credit card account sends me the same email.

[LordDave]

More like a company that is supposed to keep that private, letting your account number be seen by other people.

No it isn't. A bank account number is the same as a password. The Bank Name and your name are more like the user names.
Unless it's my bank's online site in which you require your account number and then a password to access your bank stuff.
However, knowing someone's account number allows you to put money in. Though not take money out.

[Varrangian]

If it were such a 'non-issue', why would they have a separate account name, and simply not just make your forum handle your account name across the board.

Again, its about proper level of protection of personal information.


Like I said, for SOE your account name and forum name are the same (or at least they used to be, I haven't been to their forums for years), so all Cryptic has done is tie the two together in game. Which anyone who was paying attention could have done out of the game.

[dru_mcd]

No.
It's equivalent to someone seeing the bank you have your money at and then having to guess your bank account #.

... But again, as LordDave has pointed out, the more likely issue is key loggers, because they can get your password (the important part), and if they can log you're password you can bet they logged your account name as well regardless of if it is the same as your forum name or not.

More like a company that is supposed to keep that private, letting your account number be seen by other people.

So, ok it's not like having a person's bank account number. And if it's not a problem unless you have a poor password or unless a keyloger program steals the information from you. What exactly is it? If your credit card information is not stored, or is missing specific information, like a CVV, is this a tempest in a teacup or is there another issue that I'm not aware of?

[Varrangian]

So, ok it's not like having a person's bank account number. And if it's not a problem unless you have a poor password or unless a keyloger program steals the information from you. What exactly is it? If your credit card information is not stored, or is missing specific information, like a CVV, is this a tempest in a teacup or is there another issue that I'm not aware of?

Well that's for you to decide. I see it as a none issue. Loekii does not. Neither of us are correct in essence because it is a personal choice. I don't see Cryptic changing it, but who knows.

[codeminer]

Treat attempts from different IP addresses separately.

That's IF Cryptic is smart enough to use IP logging. :D

They lock you out after five currently (they had a forum issue recently that did this by accident). But you also receive an email stating what has happened. If you were not trying to log into your account I'd bet you'd let them know pretty quick. Like if my credit card account sends me the same email.

Well, my point is the griefing and inconvenienceof it all. :(

[LordDave]

If it were such a 'non-issue', why would they have a separate account name, and simply not just make your forum handle your account name across the board.

Again, its about proper level of protection of personal information.


Account Name: Loekii
Login Name: Loekii
Credit Card Number: Loekii.
Address: Loekii dr. Loekii, LI
Real Name: Loekii, Loekii.

:p

Sorry, I'm taking this in a silly light because I think your overreacting, being paranoid, and giving value to something that has no real value.

Look, my World of Warcraft Account Name is Lord_dave122
Can anyone hack it now? Have I compromised my security? Is it actually easier to guess my password now?

[LordDave]

So, ok it's not like having a person's bank account number. And if it's not a problem unless you have a poor password or unless a keyloger program steals the information from you. What exactly is it? If your credit card information is not stored, or is missing specific information, like a CVV, is this a tempest in a teacup or is there another issue that I'm not aware of?

Tempest in a tea cup.
Loekii feels that his login name is secret and personal and shouldn't be given out even though experts agree that the password is the secret thing, not the login. Which is why many companies use the First initial, Last name login system for their employees. You know, the high ranking, holding of many company secrets guys.

[Varrangian]

Account Name: Loekii
Login Name: Loekii
Credit Card Number: Loekii.
Address: Loekii dr. Loekii, LI
Real Name: Loekii, Loekii.

:p

Sorry, I'm taking this in a silly light because I think your overreacting, being paranoid, and giving value to something that has no real value.

Look, my World of Warcraft Account Name is Lord_dave122
Can anyone hack it now? Have I compromised my security? Is it actually easier to guess my password now?

I'm worried about my security because you have a picture of me dressed up as a Jedi :p

[Loekii]

Well that's for you to decide. I see it as a none issue. Loekii does not. Neither of us are correct in essence because it is a personal choice. I don't see Cryptic changing it, but who knows.

And if it is an personal choice, people should have the choice about it.

However, they do not.

We cannot change our Account Names -- without creating another forum account (which invalidates perks to this forum account and violates the site guild-lines).

Like many other things, Cryptic has handled this poorly.

The proper thing to do would be to allow people to change their Account Names -- which would allow them to protect their personal accounts against the vulnerability Cryptic has created.

[Gideon]

The issue is that option is not provided.

The way it works is the game automatically uses your Forum Account as your Game account -- So you cannot 'change' it.

Many people have the same name for their Forum Account and Forum names, as we were never told that it would become our Game account.

As stated above by Thunder, there is a difference between forum privacy and game privacy.

What Cryptic should have done is either:

Create a Separate Game Account Name, like other games
or
Have everyone reset their 'Forum Account' Names to a non-public Name -- as it was Cryptic's own mistake/error that has created this issue.





Not sure why this is that big of a deal. I think I and others mentioned this before but my game account IS different from my forum/display name. And yours can be too just, email Cryptic support and give them 3 suggestions and they will change your forum display name. Or am I missing something else?

[Varrangian]

And if it is an personal choice, people should have the choice about it.

However, they do not.

We cannot change our Account Names -- without creating another forum account (which invalidates perks to this forum account and violates the site guild-lines).

Like many other things, Cryptic has handled this poorly.

The proper thing to do would be to allow people to change their Account Names -- which would allow them to protect their personal accounts against the vulnerability Cryptic has created.



Are they not offering to change the display name of someone in this thread in CO? I thought I read that.

While you may not have a choice about how Cryptic has decided to handle it, I say this with all due respect Loekii, you have a choice in whether or not you do business with them.

Like I said, I don't see them changing the system, but I could be wrong. If it is that important of an issue to you, and they don't change I recommend you let your money talk.

[Gideon]

And if it is an personal choice, people should have the choice about it.

However, they do not.

We cannot change our Account Names -- without creating another forum account (which invalidates perks to this forum account and violates the site guild-lines).

Like many other things, Cryptic has handled this poorly.

The proper thing to do would be to allow people to change their Account Names -- which would allow them to protect their personal accounts against the vulnerability Cryptic has created.



When I emailed them and asked them to change my account name they said they couldn't do it but they could change the forum/display name.

[dru_mcd]

Tempest in a tea cup.
Loekii feels that his login name is secret and personal and shouldn't be given out even though experts agree that the password is the secret thing, not the login. Which is why many companies use the First initial, Last name login system for their employees. You know, the high ranking, holding of many company secrets guys.

Of which I've been one of those people once upon a time. They also force strong password changes periodically BTW - it's a real pain in the behind to keep on remembering all those passwords and have to log in and out all the time.

I don't want to give the impresson of being dismissive of security concerns. But, I do want to understand the source of the concern.

[Loekii]

When I emailed them and asked them to change my account name they said they couldn't do it but they could change the forum/display name.

Changing the display/forum name does not change the point that your Game Account Name has been made public.

You change your Display name, I still know your Game account name = Heralo.


Of which I've been one of those people once upon a time. They also force strong password changes periodically BTW - it's a real pain in the behind to keep on remembering all those passwords and have to log in and out all the time.

I don't want to give the impression of being dismissive of security concerns. But, I do want to understand the source of the concern.

As I asked above in a previous post, if it is such a Non-Issue, why are the names separate to begin with? Why ask for an 'Account name' and a 'Forum Name'? Obviously because there is an issue with doing that, and there is a desire to keep Account names private. The problem is Cryptic mishandled it here, and have thus exposed a bunch of people's account names.

[dru_mcd]

... The proper thing to do would be to allow people to change their Account Names -- which would allow them to protect their personal accounts against the vulnerability Cryptic has created.



Is this a perceived vulnerability or an actual vulnerabilty? As of right now, you and everyone else here knows my account name.

Some in my familyfreinds believe in shredding, some don't. Is a perception of a security risk what you're upset about?

Is you credit card infomation saved with your account information on CO?

[Varrangian]

Is this a perceived vulnerability or an actual vulnerabilty? As of right now, you and everyone else here knows my account name.

Some in my familyfreinds believe in shredding, some don't. Is a perception of a security risk what you're upset about?

Is you credit card infomation saved with your account information on CO?

Only in the manner it is saved with any other account of an MMO. Partially.

[THORN74]

Account Name: Loekii
Login Name: Loekii
Credit Card Number: Loekii.
Address: Loekii dr. Loekii, LI
Real Name: Loekii, Loekii.

:p

Sorry, I'm taking this in a silly light because I think your overreacting, being paranoid, and giving value to something that has no real value.

Look, my World of Warcraft Account Name is Lord_dave122
Can anyone hack it now? Have I compromised my security? Is it actually easier to guess my password now?

AAHHHHH HHHAAAA !!!!!!

ur password is = 221evad_drol



take that !!! :rolleyes::rolleyes:

u guys a way out of control here. its not that big a deal. Personally i dont like it either, not for some security or personal info reason. simply because it just looks and sounds stupid,

but hey thats just me

[Varrangian]

u guys a way out of control here. its not that big a deal. Personally i dont like it either, not for some security or personal info reason. simply because it just looks and sounds stupid,

but hey thats just me

I honestly don't even notice it in game any more, but that is by no means going to be the same experience for all people.

[Gideon]

I honestly don't even notice it in game any more, but that is by no means going to be the same experience for all people.

That, and the fact that if you really don't want to see it you can turn it off so it doesn't show in your chat window. This won't remove it comepletely but it will greatly reduce the times you have to see it while playing.

[dru_mcd]

Changing the display/forum name does not change the point that your Game Account Name has been made public.

You change your Display name, I still know your Game account name = Heralo.

As I asked above in a previous post, if it is such a Non-Issue, why are the names separate to begin with? Why ask for an 'Account name' and a 'Forum Name'? Obviously because there is an issue with doing that, and there is a desire to keep Account names private. The problem is Cryptic mishandled it here, and have thus exposed a bunch of people's account names.

How did Cryptic mishandle it and why is knowing the account name a security risk?

[Varrangian]

That, and the fact that if you really don't want to see it you can turn it off so it doesn't show in your chat window. This won't remove it comepletely but it will greatly reduce the times you have to see it while playing.

Ha well you can tell how much I cared since I didn't bother to try to turn it off. If you can do that the only times you should see it are when you click on a player for more info about them. Cool beans, I'll remember that if someone asks about it.

[Loekii]

Is this a perceived vulnerability or an actual vulnerabilty? As of right now, you and everyone else here knows my account name.

Some in my family friends believe in shredding, some don't. Is a perception of a security risk what you're upset about?

Is you credit card information saved with your account information on CO?

Again, then why have the stuff secret in the first place?

And again, because obviously, Cryptic feels its important to do so. The problem is, they made a mistake that compromises it.


How did Cryptic mishandle it and why is knowing the account name a security risk?

They mishandled it, by not making sure that people's forum names were the same as their account names, before they decided to make that the game account name.

If it was not a 'risk' and it wasn't important, then they would not have put in the layer of protection of having an 'account name' in addition to your forum name.

However, they put it in there, not for kicks, not for fun, but for security reasons.

The system is compromised/Broken. It was misapplied, thus compromising the purpose.

[Varrangian]

How did Cryptic mishandle it and why is knowing the account name a security risk?

Here is the problem. This is a security risk to Loekii, and while it might not be to you or I, we cannot change his opinion and since it is his opinion it is valid. I can't tell Loekii how to feel about this. I can only share how I feel and the reasons I feel that way.

This may be one where we have to agree to disagree.

[dru_mcd]

Again, then why have the stuff secret in the first place?

And again, because obviously, Cryptic feels its important to do so. The problem is, they made a mistake that compromises it.


Either you're making circular arguments or I'm just missing some detail that you haven't elaborated on yet.

[dru_mcd]

This may be one where we have to agree to disagree.

That's what I'm trying to figure out. ;)

[Cormoran]

I like it. nice and easy having my username and forumname together along with the cryptic games i'll be playing

you can call me unoriginal for not having to think up a unique delicate little snowflake of a character name but tough ****ies, i'll use an unoriginal name if i like it. we don't go around abusing the parents of every john smith for being unoriginal now do we. infact it's generally quite the opposite, you usually see people giggle at the people who make up delicate little snowflakey type names for their kids.

[JMD10222]

I don't know if its just me or not; but doesn't the whole @system just seem tacky and "amature-ish"? Something that a F2P indie developer with 5k subs would do; rather then a company that will most likely bring in the hundreds of thousands?

No. It just means after you spend 45min to an hour customizing your Char you dont lose out on the chance to get the name you want. In reality just because someone is named John does not mean that no-one else can be named John, so Cryptic is giving everyone the ability to have whatever name they want (as long as it does not violate naming policy). I do agree that it sucks that you cant create a Char that you can "hide" on to get away from your friends and or Fleet for some alone time, but a minor irritation at that. It is also set up so your friends can find you easier by recognizing your account name. I'm not to concerned with account hacks at the moment until I'm given a good reason to be, but I can see where this is a concern for people, as I am mildly concerned myself. I'm not worried about someone getting my credit card number as that is not displayed in your account management screen, but as I said mildly concerned of getting my account stolen and having to go though the fun of getting things fixed (been there before:(). Also being a single server game the naming issue could be a nightmare so this is not a bad way to handle that issue as well.

[dru_mcd]

Again, then why have the stuff secret in the first place?

And again, because obviously, Cryptic feels its important to do so. The problem is, they made a mistake that compromises it.




They mishandled it, by not making sure that people's forum names were the same as their account names, before they decided to make that the game account name.

If it was not a 'risk' and it wasn't important, then they would not have put in the layer of protection of having an 'account name' in addition to your forum name.

However, they put it in there, not for kicks, not for fun, but for security reasons.

The system is compromised/Broken. It was misapplied, thus compromising the purpose.

How do we know if Forum_Name and Account_Name just aren't two linked feilds in their database? Aren't you making an assumption that those two feilds were on the user account page were for security or could it just be because of an overpressured database employee?

And, please - elaborate on WHY knowing someone's account name is a security risk. I know yours and you know mine and Lord Dave and Varrangian and, hell, so does everybody else. It's only a risk if they know our passwords, right?

Or, were you just hoping for a bit more anonymity?

[Tamgros]

How do we know if Forum_Name and Account_Name just aren't two linked feilds in their database? Aren't you making an assumption that those two feilds were on the user account page were for security or could it just be because of an overpressured database employee?

And, please - elaborate on WHY knowing someone's account name is a security risk. I know yours and you know mine and Lord Dave and Varrangian and, hell, so does everybody else. It's only a risk if they know our passwords, right?

Or, were you just hoping for a bit more anonymity?

Yeah, in IRC, gozer raised a good point. We give out our e-mail addresses all the time, those are our account names for our e-mails. Why is the account name on these forums so much different. We still have a password.

[Loekii]

Here is the problem. This is a security risk to Loekii, and while it might not be to you or I, we cannot change his opinion and since it is his opinion it is valid. I can't tell Loekii how to feel about this. I can only share how I feel and the reasons I feel that way.

This may be one where we have to agree to disagree.

Well said, and I agree with respect to our opinions on the matter.

However, that does not really address he issue the system is broken in a sense.

They have a system to have a separate Account and Forum name&Display name.

Errors have been made that result in the same name being used for all three. Meaning that some customers -- because of this error -- are less secure than others.

Its about providing the opportunity to correct that error, so that all customers are basically following the intended system layout of Different account and forum names.

[Winginit]

In CO is is like this:

Name above Players Head = Zantril
Name appearing in Chat window = Zantril@Loekii
When inspecting a Character = @Loekii is displayed at bottom of display window


I can live with that. If it were "gamename@forumname" at all times, that could be annoying. But I am curious as to why they insist on showing the forum name at all. I can think of some pro's and con's, but it's not something I'll dwell on too much.

[Varrangian]

I can live with that. If it were "gamename@forumname" at all times, that could be annoying. But I am curious as to why they insist on showing the forum name at all. I can think of some pro's and con's, but it's not something I'll dwell on too much.

Well apparently you can turn it off in chat, and I just checked I didn't see how, but I wasn't going to waste a more than a few minutes looking, would be nice if it was more obvious though.

The reason the forum/account name is displayed is because CO and STO will not be using a unique naming system, so to distinguish between my character Torch and someone else named Torch they add Torch@varrangian to the name.

[HaveANiceDay]

did someone ever spoke up to Worf as Worf123@SonOfMogh ? I don't remeber that. I don't care if anyone can get access to my forum information, it just sounds stupid as a playername.

[HaveANiceDay]

I can live with that. If it were "gamename@forumname" at all times, that could be annoying. But I am curious as to why they insist on showing the forum name at all. I can think of some pro's and con's, but it's not something I'll dwell on too much.

If it will be like this in STO then i'm very comfortable with this. No big deal

[Varrangian]

did someone ever spoke up to Worf as Worf123@SonOfMogh ? I don't remeber that. I don't care if anyone can get access to my forum information, it just sounds stupid as a playername.

Well first of all, let's say Worf was not a character from ST, then Worf would be the name, there would be no need for the 123, because multiple players could have Worf as their name, so there would be no need to add anything.

As I said, it can be turned off in the chat system. So you would only see the @SonOfMogh when you clicked on the character to get more information about them.

[dru_mcd]

Well said, and I agree with respect to our opinions on the matter.

However, that does not really address he issue the system is broken in a sense.

They have a system to have a separate Account and Forum name&Display name.

Errors have been made that result in the same name being used for all three. Meaning that some customers -- because of this error -- are less secure than others.

Its about providing the opportunity to correct that error, so that all customers are basically following the intended system layout of Different account and forum names.

So, what you're saying is ...
New customers to Champions Online will have the ability to have an account name that could be different from their forum name. And, right now, a person who currently has a Cryptic forum account is locked into having the same account name and forum name.?

And you see that in this way long-time forum users will be easy to identify but subsequent new subscribers could have more anonymity. And you can't just make a new user account without loosing the "longtime-user-whatever" award that has yet to come.

Is this in the ballpark of what your position is, Loekii?

[Loekii]

So, what you're saying is ...
New customers to Champions Online will have the ability to have an account name that could be different from their forum name. And, right now, a person who currently has a Cryptic forum account is locked into having the same account name and forum name.

In this way, long-time forum users will be easy to identify, but subsequent new subscribers could have more anonymity.

Is this in the ballpark of what your position is, Loekii?

It identifies the end result, more or less.

My issue is simply that the Game Account Name should be private for everyone one -- not just some people. They should change the account names of those posters that have the same account name and forum name -- so that they are receiving the same protection as everyone else.

Now to clarify, they did not inform people that their Forum Accounts = Game Accounts, so people made decisions without all the information, and now are facing consequences of Cryptic's decision.

[dru_mcd]

It identifies the end result, more or less.

My issue is simply that the Game Account Name should be private for everyone one -- not just some people. They should change the account names of those posters that have the same account name and forum name -- so that they are receiving the same protection as everyone else.

Now to clarify, they did not inform people that their Forum Accounts = Game Accounts, so people made decisions without all the information, and now are facing consequences of Cryptic's decision.

When we all signed up for this forum there wasn't an option to have a seperate account/forum name.
But, will they not make a change at your request?

[Solomon_Kane]

I like my forum name being known... It makes me easier to find, especially if I am playing an alt on the server.

[Varrangian]

I like my forum name being known... It makes me easier to find, especially if I am playing an alt on the server.

Just a note, and this post reminded me that some people might not know or understand. But CO plays on "one" server, meaning it is all one game world. This is the big part of the naming issue because it is not like you can just pick another server and get the name you want. Not that, that is always a reasonable solution either.

[KODudna]

Wait wait wait....

For sake of argument, my forum handle and forum account name are the same. Chuck.

Forum name is Chuck.

Forum account is Chuck.

I go in game, and create a character named Jimbo. So his full name will be Jimbo@Chuck, because it uses the forum handle, correct? This essentially gives away my forum account name (but its not like anyone would know that....).

However, who's to say that my forum account and game account are one and the same? I could make my game account Stevie_Wonder. And tie it to the forums obviously, so my character would still be Jimbo@Chuck, but... my game account name is still safe and anonymous and secure.

I don't see the issue. So they have my forum account. Big deal. Nobody knows they have my forum account, and besides, there is nothing vital tied to the forum account. All the important stuff is in my game account. Whoop-de-doo?

[No1UKnow]

I like the idea. I see nothing wrong with people being accountable for their words/actions across the board. We need more of this on the www.

[Vicelance]

Having played Runescape for years where your characters name and your account name are the same I can't say I'm bothered by this. The only true way to keep your account safe if by having a difficult to guess password and changing it frequently, not going to certain websites which might install keyloggers, and keeping anti-virus software up to date.

Besides your user name is shown on the forums anyway. Until the login name and the displayed username are different, and people stop putting their characters pictures and names in their avatar or signiture like quite a few on the CO forums have done it's really a moot point whether account names are shown in game.

[Dogbertious]

I have no objections to my characters being easily connected to my forum account; however, I'd really prefer it not to be in the form of a suffix to my character's name ingame.
It just seems.....well, messy, having a @Dogbertious strung on the end of every one of my character's names. I wouldn't mind it if I could switch that part off (ie, it doesn't appear after my name, but if you inspect, or do any other 'task' on my character, it shows).
I see why they are doing this, but at the same time, I do value the anonimity that you can get by playing another character. Admittedly, some use this anonimity to grief, and to cause trouble, but at the same time, others use it to relax.

[CapTrott]

At first I was upset about this because I thought it would take away from immersion seeing the @forumname after the players name but if it is like Champions Online I am not worried because there is an option to hide the forum names and I think most people will do that.

One nice thing about this is it allows for repeated names. Though I do still wonder how the naming convention will be. I think we should have a first and last name option, so that NPCs refer to us Captain Lastname rather than Captain Entirename.

[Paulo999]

Sheeba@Sheeba ... well.. great :D

[buckeyestar]

It is just upsetting that this is the solution, rather than having this done properly.

Sort of like, well you can just open a new bank account, to correct the mistake of the Bank publicizing your account on their website. :(
Not even close. The bank account analogy would only be appropriate if they were posting your password from here. So people know your forum name by seeing your game account name? I fail to see the issue.