Web of Deceit

 April 14, 2024 - Web of Deceit 

Here we stand, crossing the threshold into our fifties, navigating the quiet aftermath of divorce or loss, with our children’s laughter replaced by silence in the now too-spacious home. The question arises: what comes next? Our generation wasn’t raised in the digital age; the intricate web of social media is a foreign land to us. I remember, now in my sixties, the days when a corded phone was a staple in every household and an electric typewriter was my prized possession for college papers.

Yet, there’s a desire to connect with someone new, to perhaps venture into dating again, or simply to find a companion for conversation beyond our usual social circles. It’s an appealing thought, but caution is paramount.

With a solid education and a lifetime of professional experience, you’ve always made thoughtful, prudent choices. Now, your children suggest exploring dating websites to discover what possibilities await. It seems like an excellent suggestion!

However, are we truly aware of what lies in the digital expanse? My encounter with ‘Michael’ on Facebook, a platform I never suspected could conceal a predator, proved me mistaken.  In my blog, I am reaching out to women and men who would like to share their encounters with online predators for my next novel.  I will also blog about your encounters on my page if you would like to share them with my readers. You can stay 100% anonymous.  I will be adding information on finding help if you are a victim of cyber stalking.    

A new update as of January 2025.  'Michael' has found me on LinkedIn, and viewed my profile several times over the week  No doubt he has read my book and is furious!  His profile still reads 'photographer' although he is not., and he has listed himself once again with a false persona.  I do love the fact that I am living in his delusional brain rent free.  I did watch a documentary the other night about a man who is now serving 13 years in jail for connecting with women through a dating site, getting to know them and then asking for money. He lures them in romantically and although many women went to the police, they were ignored until he was charged with rape!  The police need to listen, regardless of whether that woman has entered in to a romantic relationship and given money freely.  Men like him and Michael take advantage of  gentle women and need to be held accountable.