Submit a question to our community and get an answer from real people.
Submit

Is it appropriate for adults on this site to be emailing with minors from ASK?

I know people of all ages chat with each other on ASK. But isn't it crossing a line for an adult and minor to email with each other? Don't you think the children's parents would find this upsetting?

Report as
This user is an Ask Community moderator.
This answer contributed to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® What's this?
This user is an Ask Community moderator.
My answers support Susan G. Komen for the Cure® What's this?

Not really an answer to your question kuuipo, but I think it is something that should be mentioned. The mods remove email addresses from profiles and Q&A when we find it on the site. We are unable to monitor every profile and question/answer/comment, but we do try our best. If you come across these things, please feel free to flag the content to let us know.

Additionally, we want those in the community to be safe and smart about what they share with others. Just a reminder please do not give out your email address, phone numbers, Facebook pages or any other personal contact information on Ask.com or any other website in public view. There are people who cannot be trusted and who will lie to get information from you. Please be safe!

Helpful (11) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (6)
Report as
Great answer. I always have my eyes peeled on the younger ones. So, how long do you think my Q will last? I know it's a bit controversial, but I just wonder if my line of thinking is too old fashioned.
Report as
Your question is fine. And I don't think you are old-fashioned in your thinking. People that are not on the up-and-up exist and sometimes people trust others before truly knowing them. We have comments for a reason on the site. Discussions can happen there.
Report as
WEEE! Green to shooshie! That's why when king and rob asked if I'd like to email, I was like, "Ehhh. I don't usually give out my email to people I don't know know..."
Report as
Thanks Shooshie! That's my point. 8)
Report as
:)

At 40+, I don't share my email address.
Report as
candybar
Awww, Shooshie, you're one of the great ones. Green.
Report as
Add a comment...

It is definitely, under no circumstances, would it be appropriate to give out ANY info on here. I seriously don't even see why there is a feature to give out where you live on here! It's very dangerous.

Edit: Also, I just remembered a question a few months ago about this person who put her email on her profile, and now she has this "little kid" stalking her and messaging her in her email who won't leave her alone.

Helpful (7) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (2)
Report as
g.. but a state is ok
Report as
Thanks for answering.
Report as
Add a comment...

It's definitely wrong, and the only reason that it would occur is if the adult has boundary issues and/or ulterior motives. It is possible to help someone on here, in sight of God and everybody, unless you have something to hide.

Helpful (7) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (5)
Report as
g.. I'm an open book... that's my problem.... :)
Report as
Thanks MJ. I was beginning to think I was too old fashioned.
Report as
Living a transparent life is a very good thing, dustee. Unfortunately, people on here can sometimes use it against you.

kuuipo, I don't think you're old-fashioned at all. This is a scary age we live in, and it only gets worse the more that kids get blase about internet safety.
Report as
I agree Mary, but sometimes you may want to say something or give background info. short term and not have a permanent record. Know what I mean?
Report as
Yes... but in this day and age, you just can't be too careful. It's sad. I'm so glad I lived when I did. Wish I'd been born a hundred years earlier.
Report as
Add a comment...

Definitely inappropriate! Almost to the point of notifying Chris Hanson and getting the sweet tea and cookies ready...

Helpful (7) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (15)
Report as
Dude, you have to look up the song "To Catch a Predator" by Insane Clown Posse, I KNOW you would like it!!! Guaranteed
Report as
No no no, G.R.I.T.S. by Brantley Gilbert (or many of his other songs) or She's Country by Jason Aldean (or all of his other songs). :3
Report as
Have a seat...
Report as
*Sits*
Report as
Do those have anything to do with punishing people that lure children to their house for "happy time"?
Report as
Well, no, not at all..... You didn't specify!!!!! *throws green muffins and runs* :)
Report as
Oh yeah, "To Catch a Predator" is a song about a guy that pretends to be 13 on the internet and lures predators to his house so he can erradicate them from the face of the earth :) It's SUCH a good song :) Everytime I listen to it I get so pumped up
Report as
..... ANYWAYS! My Facebook fortune cookie says "You're almost there." WHERE?!?!
Report as
FB Fortune Cookie huh?? What's next
Report as
I love the concept of that song Naf! No sweet tea, just a Louisville Slugger to the dome...!
Report as
God wants you to know app.... :3
Report as
It's SO good :)
Report as
Speaking of Louisville Sluggers - Before He Cheats by Carrie Underwood. :3
Report as
Kuu hurry and read your instant.
Report as
g
Report as
Add a comment...

As far as just asking question and answering them u think it's ok, I've noticed a lot of younger people asking things they may not be able to ask parents, also let's face it, the younger generation is more tech savvy and helpful with today's modern world, that being said, I think what would be inappropriate is either asking or responding to questions that are sexually provocative.

Helpful (2) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (2)
Report as
I understand and enjoy them being on the site. All answers and comments are out in the open. What I don't understand is the need to email with a child.
Report as
Exactly! If it's just having knowledge of something great, but leave the sexual innuendos alone!!!!
Report as
Add a comment...

I don't condone this, BUT, not everybody is out there trying to get into kids pants. I've had a couple "kids" give me their E-mail here and just b-cuz of the stigma that comes from an older person (I'm 34 for cryin out loud, goin on 17) talking with a kid, I just haven't E-mailed any of them b-cuz it's a headache I don't need to deal with if they try to say I'm trying to lure them some where or something like that (which would NEVER happen). I'm even sketchy on talking with kids in my trailer park b-cuz of the same reasons. Society has somehow made me feel creepy in my own skin and it's pretty unfair. I would NEVER do ANYTHING with a kid, but society says that if you're older and talking with a kid, then you must be trying to sleep with them, and that ain't right.

Helpful (7) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (10)
Report as
You're right. Even the purest of intentions can be misunderstood.
Report as
Some of the kids in this park won't even look at me let alone say HI! I mean I know that there are sick and twisted freaks out there, but saying HI??
Report as
Come on, not even a "Hi!"? Well, Hi!!! *waves*
Report as
You're right Nafta. There should be a happy medium. But I just can't see what an adult on this site needs to say in private to a child from this site. If the adults intentions are pure, they should be able to hash it out in the open. Seriously, the anonymity of this site is perfect for openly helping others.
Report as
Definitely Kuu, the "going private" part is definitely worthy of being questioned. I'll talk about ANYTHING on here (as you well know) as long as the mods leave it up :)
Report as
That's also why I don't think Ask should add chat rooms or private messaging. That's just my way of thinking.
Report as
I hear ya :)
Report as
You both raise an excellent point about society today. NAFTA, you are a victim as well. Being an overly knowledgeable person and also, I believe, a kind and humorous person, I would not feel threatened if my child were to talk to you. I have been in situations where I have seen parents be overly protective. I have seen MORE situations where parents have no clue where their kids are. Even being a 45 year old women, I am afraid to smile or wave to a child, for it might be mistaken as "I want to take you as my own." Don won't even look at a child standing in line at the store. People most definitely would think "ohh, look at the old man, smiling at that child.." because why? He has silver hair and doesn't have anyone with him?! It is a sad and sorry state of affairs. Very uncomfortable for everyone.
Report as
Right!?! I mean if I see a baby sittin in a shopping cart and it's starin at me and I wanna wave and smile at it, then what the frig is wrong with that!!?? We have been rasied these days to not trust one another and always have fear of our neighbor, when in MOST cases people are just good and have no harmful thoughts in mind. Kids are amazing, you never know what they're gonna say or do, and the whole world hasn't crashed down on their heads and destroyed their view on things. Not like I go out with an intention to talk with kids, but if I do talk with a kid, I don't wanna be looked at like a friggin pervo!!
Report as
Exactly!!! Today people are so ready to think the worst. What happened to know your neighbor? Introduce yourself, "Hi, my name is Merlin, I see you just moved in, welcome to the neighborhood! There's a creek over here and if you get a chance a great ball park down the street... Welcome! And don't forget the pool is up the road!" If you were to mention the ball park and the pool, some may take that as perv. Prejudgement is uncalled for in any circumstance.. but you, because of your gender, and Don for the same reason and age, can't even be "the nice guys" you are. I made brownies once for some neighbors who moved in. They moved out 2 1/2 months later and never spoke to Don nor me. See? What has happened?
Report as
Add a comment...

I think so. I would never go beyond commenting with people on here. I'm a smart cookie.... :3

Helpful (4) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (8)
Report as
Tell me about it! You still think I'm tryin to stalk ya!!! Geez
Report as
Hey, you gotta have your bug eye out man!!! *makes big eyes*
Report as
But I think the Stewart's thing proves that you're not stalkerish.
Report as
Well keep lookin, cuz I ain't tryna do NOTHIN :)
Report as
Got ittt. (:
Report as
Good girl CGP...now keep it that way! 8)
Report as
Always keep your ear to the ground :)
Report as
:D I must go cuddle with my poochie and take a shower. Baaah y'all!
Report as
Add a comment...

Hi! I applaud all of the above observations. unfortunately, as been noted, not all people are of good spirit and mind when coming on any site. I think common sense is something a lot of us take for granted. The desire to steer people toward answers they are seeking is what this site is started for and continues to do an exceptional job in maintaining. Kids will always push the boundaries. It's one thing kids just do. It's the responsibility of all of us to word questions and not offend the adults and the still put it in some "lingo" that the kids are using. Sometimes it tough, but helping a person young or old is always worth it me. Thanks for putting it out there to remind kids to beware. Adults as well. Have a super great day!

Helpful (5) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (2)
Report as
Out in the open is one thing, but privately chatting up some 14 year old when you're old enough to know better (we should hope) is a HUGE no-no! And that has been happening around here...
Report as
Thanks for your answer. 8)
Report as
Add a comment...
joshuabagel

I was gonna say I don't see a problem with something that seemingly harmless, but based on the above answers, I guess I'm the odd man out. I'll agree with them!

Helpful (3) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (3)
Report as
Green for your wiseness...
Report as
Glad we could help you see the light. 8)
Report as
joshuabagel
Haha thank you for straightening me out!
Report as
Add a comment...

Its amazing what sort of questions people put on here, does seem alot of young people are too shy to ask parents or guardian about what can be done, I don't think any email addresses or mobile numbers are allowed, it's all based on asking anything and no one knows who you are

Helpful (2) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (1)
Report as
Thank you for your answer.
Report as
Add a comment...
candybar

No, nada, zilch, and not even close. That crosses the line and should actually go beyond ASK and report to police for a questionable pedophile.

Helpful (7) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (12)
Report as
ggggggggg g
Report as
Oh girl if you only knew, you went through it too!!! Now I see where all his drama came from, glad its over! Just still unbelieveable to me still, wow is all I can say!
Report as
Green Candy, thanks.
Report as
candybar
Kookie? Ku?
Report as
candybar
Ok. I'm waiting for answers here.
Report as
Kuu here...what's up?
Report as
candybar
It was Bob wasn't it.
Report as
candybar
Or King.
Report as
Candy, we all answered a Q saying bye to King yesterday. Take a look. There was an answer and thread that was deleted this morning, but you'll get the idea from what's left.
Report as
candybar
I think I understand. I was right. Right?
Report as
Yes. It was long overdue for him to go.
Report as
candybar
I knew it. It got creepy.
Report as
Add a comment...

This is a very troubling question for me, it kept me up most of the night.
There was a very smart beyond his years teen on here that thrived on adult wisdom and connection, actually we thrived on his smart witted answers as well.
He was made to feel very uncomfortable by someone here emailing him at least twice a day, so he made the choice to move on to other sites designed for teens.
Guys please remember if it feels weird, it is weird, that's our built in fear telling us to stop.
I know you don't want your parents reading your mail over your shoulder, but your parents jobs are to keep you safe and out of harms way. Never ever go to meet up with anyone ever, you don't know 100% for sure who your meeting, you could put your self in danger. Always keep yourself safe, this goes for emailing too! If you can't share it with your parents, don't do it !!

Helpful (5) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (8)
Report as
hey koo g :)
Report as
Thanks for getting the message out!
Report as
Let's just hope everyone listens!!
Report as
candybar
Was it bob?
Report as
Candy, you know who it was, go back and read Kings goodbyes, lots of stuff was deleted, but if you read Bobs post you'll see the whole story, I hate that it had to come out that way, but it had to be said.
Report as
candybar
Kookie. Just say yes or no. Please. I already know. I need to hear it from you too b
Report as
Yes, it was Bob!!!
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
sigh:(
Report as
Add a comment...
MarmaladeSkies

Kuu, he's gone. I knew he was lying about Eric and the mod jobs. But instead of calling him on it, I covered for him. Yes, it's inappropriate. But I actually emailed him first. Stupid. l had to leave because I didn't want him to know I was on. He emailed me later saying that he was asking Eric if he could make a different account using the same email. Chances are, he's coming back. With a disguise. Most likely to spy on us. You were right Kuu. God, why am I so stupid?! Jake and I are the only minors emailing him right? I don't know if it was Vietnam or just him but guys, never email a 60 year old person unless you're above the age of 18. It's not worth it. UGH.... I wish I could hit a reset button. I guess it's true. Trouble is a friend. So beware if someone talks to you like this ! It's probably him !

Helpful (5) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (33)
Report as
Tears are on my cheeks. I am so happy you FINALLY understand. 8)
(((hugs))) in a mom way. 8)
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
i liked him though :( I understand. To be honest, I understood a while ago. I didn't want it to be true so I blocked it out. Till his email yesterday... Thanks Kuu:)
Report as
Your welcome. You know I'm always watching for your best interest. 8) (Kuu tapping foot...where's my hug?) (wait, that was creepy!) (One that's a mom like hug)
Report as
candybar
Ku. I knew it. That's why I didn't "forgive" after he bad mouthed me. His emails got creepier and his impatience was a bit like stalking. He emailed one more time and I said if I saw him on ask, I would be cordial but not to email anymore. And yes, I believe he'll be back. With a new name.
Report as
@Ilovechicken, no you and Jacob are not the only ones emailing him, there are many more youths doing it too. They just got sucked in, this is why everything was put out in the open to warn all, please tell your friends you connect with on here, please! Warn them to stay away from him!!!!!
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
Kuu, omg sorry! :( lol (((hugs))) (motherly/daughterly way) I had to come back. :) I couldn't really talk to you any other way. Plus I just can't let Declan win....(grr).... ANYWAY, whenever I leave, I'll come back.. I love Ask lol
Kookie, I don't know of anyone else that emails him (under 18) but if I find someone, I'll tell them:)
Candy, yeah... He talked about you.. I know what you guys mean now. :( sigh
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
kuu (not to like change the subject) I got an Android phone! i love my phone:)
Report as
How exciting. I'm happy for you. 8)
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
ikr lol my mom got a phone too......hehehe i spammed my sister from my mom's phone muahahaha
Report as
That's what sisters are for. 8) I have to run 10,373 errands this morning. Don't freak out while I'm gone. I promise to be back.
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
LOL *dramatic voice* buh buh buh buh BUT YOU CAN'T LEAVE ME :'( *cries* lol JK ok bye Kuu! :D have fun lol
Report as
Ok...this is touching! My pal kuu to the rescue!!! I'm so happy to see things going on a positive note!
Report as
Holy stinkin crud!! What an eye opener!!
I always thought I was cautious about who I talk to on here and I only email less than a handful. Thankfully he wasn't one of them. Thanks all, for keepin it real!! I'll definitely be second guessing EVERYTHING here!!
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
TL, ikr!! Kuu's sweet lol
Mandy, you and guss aren't actually related, are you? lol now i feel like an idiot. Yeah I thought Bob was not like that... :(
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
holy sh*t Kuu! Doesn't he have trackers in his computer?!!
Report as
He's tracking us now...shhhh....be very, very quiet...
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
Are we hunting wabbits? He said no one was supposed to know about them... 0_o Isn't that how he found out about Slice?
Report as
Oh yes..makes ya wonder about this BN.
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
:o/
Report as
Oh boy how did I miss this...
Report as
I agree with Candy's comment up there. His kids don't even talk to him! hmmm, i wonder why...!!! Zingo, zongo! When he told me his kids live across the country and don't talk to him, that was a red light for me! Parenting/adulthood problems!
Report as
And I'm pretty sure Sunshin_gurl still emails him and I think she's a minor! 17?!
Report as
And I know for a fact he's still creeping around here now. Even without an account he can still see everything...ROBERT IF YOU'RE READING THIS YOU NEED TO GET A LIFE!
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
But can he without an iPhone??
King, she's 13.
Report as
Yep...I believe so. I'll check my computer after I shower and let ya know.
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
K well I'm going to my Aunt's house today. Sorta like a family reunion... Just smaller. But I love my dad's side of the family so it won't be pure torture like when we camped at my grandmas lol I'll bring my phone but I won't be on it much.
Report as
Yep...can do it on the computer too. Ever notice that he never said anything to Mikale or Faded for unfollowing him? Everything was directed to the females and children. That's how creeps work. Cheese...you're not still emailing with him are you?????
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
Sorry my dad said i couldnt take my phone -__- and no. I sent a goodbye email and he didnt even reply. You shoulda seen all the crap thrown at FG and Mikale...
Report as
Yes, but notice he didn't say anything here to them. He's a coward and a creep. Glad you finally listened.
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
Oh. Ok I see. I can't walk -__- mother ducking rocks
Report as
Sam, she's older then 13 but less than 17...15 or 16? she said something on here blog.
Report as
MarmaladeSkies
She said 13 on her Ask bio
Report as
Really? I though older. She just acts more mature. Then she's 13.
Report as
Add a comment...

You rock Kuu! Keep up the great work!! :o)

Helpful (4) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (2)
Report as
So, when you think I'm being a b!tch, I usually have good reason. 8)
Report as
Not once has that EVER crossed my mind.
Report as
Add a comment...

I agree email shouldn't happen, but sometimes you want to give pertinent background information without a permanent public record of it.
One reason to not use your real name, to remain anonymous, to keep your distance. There needs to be a buffer zone.

Helpful (3) Fun Thanks for voting Comments (0)
Report as
Add a comment...
Do you have an answer?
Answer this question...
Did you mean?
Login or Join the Community to answer
Popular Searches

About - Privacy - AskEraser - Careers - Ask Blog - Q&A - Mobile - Help - Feedback ©2013 Ask.com