Friday, June 17, 2011

Genevieve Sanchez Missing


Genevieve Sanchez

Fourteen year-old San Antonio teenager, Genevieve Sanchez, also known as Gena has been missing the "days".

She was least seen on Tuesday night in the neighborhood of the 21000 block of La Pena. At the time of her disappearance she was wearing a black swimsuit with a black t-shirt. Apparently, the last communication that came from the missing girl was a text message received by her mother stating that she was on here way home. She never showed up.

She is five feet, three inches tall and weighs approximately 121 pounds. Genevieve has brown eyes and brown hair.

If you have any information on here whereabouts, call the San Antonio Police Department  at 210-207-7660. Or send an anonymous email tip by going to SilentSender.com and and use email of the appropriate individual in the San Antonio Police directory, found here.


Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Weiner tweeted 17 year old girl remains anonymous

Anthony Weiner
Credit: The Christian Science Monitor
Breaking news on the "Weiner Scandal" doesn't seem to be letting up anytime soon as new revelations come out regarding tweets that went back and forth between the embattled Congressman and a 17 year old girl in Delaware. Since the girl is a minor, her name is being withheld and remains anonymous.

The 46-year-old congressman stated that he had online contact with a 17-year-old girl but said there was nothing inappropriate or salacious about it. Police visited the home of the girl and interviewed her and her parents. They also confiscated her computer. Generally, authorities do not confiscate a computer or hard-drives unless they have reason to believe that digital forensic evidence exists that would indicate a crime had been committed. We will have to wait and see. In the meantime, it is likely that more and more revelations will emerge concerning the online activities of this very publicly visible figure.

Today, the heat continues to be turned up on the congressman as The House Democratic leader, Nancy Pelosi, called on Weiner to resign citing the growing concern among Democrats that his online exchanges with women had become a distraction for the party.

The need for anonymity, especially in a case where a minor is involved remains a valuable and necessary tool of a civilized society. The ability to remain anonymous for ones protection or to be able to communicate by sending an anonymous email or anonymous letter is a fundamental right of all American citizens.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Anonymous juries allowed by Maryland court




A Maryland Court of Appeals voted 6-1 on June 6 to permit new rules that would allow anonymous juries in criminal trials when a judge determines there is a potential for juror harassment, tampering or safety. The rules permit a judge to determine on a case-by-case basis if there is any reason to protect jurors’ identities. If it is determined that juries identities should remain anonymous, the judge would call for jurors to be referred to by number.


Silent Sender reported on a similar story back in March where  an anonymous jury for  a trial in Chicago was granted by state and federal courts in Chicago Illinois. Also, remember the Blagojevich case? The judge presiding over the former Illinois Governor's trial had proclaimed that the identities of the jurors in the retrial will indeed remain anonymous until the following morning after the proceedings.


While the media doesn't favor anonymous juries and there is some controversy over the matter, this is ultimately good for citizens that must participate in controversial trials where they may be in danger of intimidation or retribution. The ability to remain anonymous by sending an anonymous email or conveying information anonymously is critical to the safety of all people.


If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.


Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...


Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Kristian Faith Stout still missing - Send an anonymous email to Phoenix Police

Authorities are asking the public to provide any information that may lead to finding a Phoenix girl who has been missing since May 27th. She was last seen at the Paradise Valley Mall.

Kristian Faith Stout, also known as Kristian Ward was last seen at the mall around 1:00 p.m. on May 27, according to the Phoenix Police Department. Kristian is a white female with brown hair and brown eyes. She is 5-feet-5-inches tall and weighs 125 pounds with pierced ears and another piercing in the top of her left ear. She is an 18 year-old woman of a 2 year-old boy.

The Phoenix Police Department is asking anyone with information on Stout’s whereabouts to contact the Missing Persons Unit at 602-534-2121 or 602-262-6141 or to email at phoenix.tips.ppd@phoenix.gov . Alternatively, if you know anything about the whereabouts of this young woman and are afraid to reveal your identity, send an anonymous email to the Phoenix Police at SilentSender.com using the email address above.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source, please click here.

Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Lauren Spierer Missing - Send an anonymous email to Bloomington Police Department


Lauren Spierer
Three days of searching streets, construction sites, lakes and the surrounding woods in and around Bloomington, Ind., police still can't Lauren Spierer and don't know where she is.

Lauren is a  20-year-old  fashion student at Indiana University. She vanished early Friday morning after being  last seen around 4:15 a.m. a few blocks from her apartment. According to a review of security cameras it has become apparent that she never made it home. Lauren also has a serious medical condition (arrhythmia) which requires daily medicine.

If you have any information regarding the where-abouts of Lauren please contact the Bloomington Police Department below. Or, if you know something and wish to send an anonymous tip to the Bloomington Police, use the email address below and go to SilentSender.com and send an anonymous email.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.


Bloomington Police
220 E Third St
Bloomington IN 47404
812-339-4477
police@bloomington.in.gov

Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Anonymous Navy Seal Who Shot Bin Laden to be Revealed?

Not likely anytime soon and possibly never.

The individual responsible for permanently snuffing out the ubiquitous, almost omnipresent force of Osama Bin Laden will most likely remain anonymous in order to protect his family and friends from harm or retaliation by any party seeking revenge on behalf of Bin Laden. Veiled in the secrecy of "black ops", this true American hero is the quintessential "Unknown Soldier."

So what do we know about the individual that probably has had an equally profound impact on the future war on terror as Bin Laden did over the last twenty years? According to some ex-Navy Seals, he is probably between ages of 26 and 33. He would likely be experienced enough to have had time to complete additional training which is required to join the elite counter-terrorism unit. But, he would also be young enough to withstand the physically strenuous aspects of the job. He is likely a man since there are no women in the SEALs. He is likely Caucasian, though the SEALs have been increasing the number of minorities in their ranks. He was possibly a high school or college athlete with attributes of  strength, speed and agility. “They are referred to as ‘tactical athletes,’ ” the ex-Seal members stated

It is probable that some operational aspects of the mission will be revealed in the future, but it is highly unlikely that any information that would reveal intelligence techniques or sources would be compromised to satisfy the insatiable public curiosity.

It is important preserve the anonymous identity of this individual, as he is a true hero and deserves the adulation of all people who reject hate and the twisted variant of jihad-ism that Bin Laden spewed from his covert hiding places since before 911. The ability to remain anonymous is a fundamental right. In this case, a fundamental necessity. Anonymity is synonymous with 'protection'. It keeps us safe from danger, whether that be fanatical retaliation, exploitation or unwanted intrusion.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Monday, May 2, 2011

Anonymous Tip Exposes Cockfighting Ring

An anonymous tip helped police bust up a cockfighting ring in Texas that was using a kiddie party as its cover to conduct the unlawful activity.

The anonymous tip led police to a Dayton, Texas property, about 65 km northeast of Houston to investigate the alleged cockfighting operation. To the utter astonishment of the police, the officers discovered a children's party complete with a waterslide and a festive picnic-like event.

Deputies began to notice suspects emerging from and unnoticeable location on the property seemingly alarmed and running to their vehicles in an attempt to elude the authorities. Several suspects crashed into each other demolition derby-style as they battled among themselves to get away. Several of the the fleeing suspects crashed into each other as the fled the scene and one blew through a wooden fence in Hollywood fashion.

The bewildered and shocked children witnessing the breakout of suspects stood by wailing in shock as police began to uncover the nefarious purpose of the event. Bloodied, battered and dead foul were discovered (some in cages with metal blades attached to their beaks) strewn about and still penned in their cages, awaiting the next round of blood lust. A barn on the property was found to contain a cockfighting ring with evidence indicating an illegal cockfighting event had been in progress; likely just before the police showed up.

Two arrest were made for interfering in a police investigation and failing to willfully provide valid identities.

Silent Sender applauds the brave individual that came forward with the anonymous tip that led to the break-up of this bloody and cruel sport. The ability to send an anonymous message or provide and anonymous tip to the authorities provides more opportunity for justice to be served and criminal activity to be exposed.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Friday, April 29, 2011

Emma Watson Anonymous Insider Cites She Was Bullied Out of Brown

"Harry Potter" super-star Emma Watson is vehemently denying that she was bullied out of Brown University.

Media reports earlier this month cited an anonymous Brown "insider" claimed Watson was "bullied out" of the prominent Providence Rhode Island university.

There was a statement posted on Watson's website Friday indicating that she was taking a semester off from school this spring and it had absolutely "nothing to do with bullying." Watson stated that she was never bullied at Brown or anywhere else.

Watson has been made famous by her role as Hermione Granger in the popular "Harry Potter" movies. She proclaimed that she was not certain what her plans are for the fall semester, her third year at the school. She says that, like many other Brown students, she is thinking about studying abroad.

Information that is cited anonymously is not always accurate. This is a good example of taking pause to examine the facts before jumping to conclusions. If Ms. Watson was indeed bullied, we hope she has not suffered the tremendous emotional stress that comes with being a victim of bullying. Anonymity is important in society. Disclosure of private or personal matters relating to a highly visible superstars are common. Defamation and hearsay are also common. However, as they say- "where there is smoke there is fire." Silent Sender believes it is everyone's inherent right to anonymous speech. The ability to send an anonymous message or reveal information anonymously should always be balanced with careful thought before taking action.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Anonymous donor gives Picasso to University of Sydney

An anonymous donor has given a priceless Picasso painting  to the University of Sydney. The only caveat is that the school must sell the painting and use proceeds pay for scientific research.

The painting depicts Picasso's lover, Marie-Therese Walter. It is Likely to sell for up to $19.5 million U.S. when it is auctioned at Christie's in London.

The painting was donated in 2010 by an anonymous individual in the United States who requested their identity remain secret. The anonymous donor personally delivered the painting to the school with the strict criteria regarding its sale and the use of the proceeds.

It is expected that a portion of the proceeds will be used to for obesity research, as well as research for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Also in 2010, another Picasso portrait of Walter was auctioned off and fetched $106.5 million — a world record sale.

The ability to remain anonymous and make great contributions to society and to scientific research is fundamental and typical of many prior philanthropic contributions. Anonymity allow for great things to happen. Whether it is sending an anonymous email to tip off the police or simply giving back to society in a humble manner, anonymity is a part of who we are.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Anonymous tip leads to drug bust


A tip from an anonymous caller has resulted in the arrest of three people now facing drug charges. The tip led police to a parking lot and then to an East York home where more than $500,000 woth of cash and drugs was discovered and seized.

The anonymous tip was received by York Regional Police regarding suspicious activity in a parking lot in the Woodbine Ave.-Hwy. 7 area.

A man was arrested without incident around March 25.

The following day police raided a home on West Lynn Ave. in East York and seized another $120,000, and a more drugs worth in excess of $310,000. Along with the cash and drugs several weapons were discovered.

"This is a fine example of how the general public can help be the eyes and ears of police work," Browne said.

It is not unusual for the general public or even someone "in the know" to send an anonymous message to authorities. Many crimes are exposed everyday by concerned citizens that either send an anonymous tip or use some form of anonymous messaging to pass on vital information that leads to arrests. Silent Sender applauds the brave citizen that contributed the information that led to these arrests.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Send Anonymous Email - Send Anonymous Message "How it works"



Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Anonymous Obama - Missing The Good Ol' Days Of No Recognition

Even President Obama admits that anonymity has its advantages, especially when you are a victim of constant overexposure and  media critique. Being able to live a normal life without your every move being tracked and followed must be veritable fantasy for Obama, especially as he moves into campaign mode for the 2012 Presidential Elections. Or not?

Obama was recently quoted as saying 'I miss being anonymous.'

The president longs of days-gone-by where he could walk around in public and go unnoticed, just another "joe" going about his business. Apparently he reminisces about the days he could saunter into a store and nobody would know who he was. Nowadays, that is quite impossible. Even with a Groucho Marx disguise it wouldn't be difficult to pick him.

Obama stated, "I just miss — I miss being anonymous," in a conversation with Hearst magazine executives at the White House the other week, according to the Houston Chronicle. "I miss Saturday morning, rolling out of bed, not shaving, getting into my car with my girls, driving to the supermarket, squeezing the fruit, getting my car washed, taking walks."

What's interesting is the President is framing the notion of anonymity in the same realm as "personal privacy." In essence, he is admitting that having no recognizable or attributable identity offers a kind of "freedom" and it is this freedom that he misses. It is always interesting to hear from celebrities and prominent members of society express their true feelings about their celebritydom. The revelation that President Obama is an indirect supporter of anonymity via the right to privacy bodes well for anonymity as an acceptable tool to protect ourselves from our own over-exposure, even if we aren't a rockstar like Mr. Obama.

Silent Sender will be watching the President's stance on anonymity and the right to anonymous speech and freedom of express through anonymity in the years to come. Being able to communicate anonymously by sending anonymous emails, socializing anonymously online or posting anonymous comments on news and blogs sites is an inalienable right. So is the right to disguise your identity in order to protect your privacy online or in the real world.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

iShareGossip Anonymous Gossip Website Targeted UPDATE

On March 25th Silent Sender reported on the European webstie iShareGossip and how it was under fire by the German government for permitting and possibly encouraging hateful speech and cyber-bullying. The prior report can be found in the archives under 'iShareGossip Anonymous Gossip Website Targeted'. As of March 30th, the German government has banned access to the gossip website, however the site continues to operate and remains very popular amongst German and European teens.

The online gossip site iShareGossip.com allegedly encourages harassment at school. The German government has quickly moved to block the site from major search engines but the popluarity of the site persists even though it cannot be searched for. Blocking "search" of the website is kind of like sweeping the dust under the proverbial rug. It doesn't really do anything but hide it from searches.  It is still accessible online and can be searched for outside of Germany as well. The concern remains that the website doesn't just encourage an environment for hateful speech, but invades users privacy rights because anyone can openly post anonymous comments about anyone else in a public forum. The controversy is somewhat confusing because this is not a new problem or issue. Anyone can easy defame of post derogatory comments anonymously on social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter (if you create a fictitious account) or any of the "suggestion" websites like Askville, Wiki Answers or Yahoo! Answers. It just so happens that iShareGossip may be inadvertently (or openly) marketing itself as a venue for anon "haters". While we have these problems in the United States - even websites such as Tumblr.me and Formspring.me have not prompted government intervention. As far as Germany goes, the questions should be what are the legal ramifications of it iShareGossip's users and the website itself? What laws are being broken by posters (defamation laws) and is the website considered public domain. What would be the difference if I screamed at the top of my lungs some hateful speech about a student while in the playground?

Silent Sender in no way condones cyber-bullying or the poor choices that some teens are making on iShareGossip or any other social networking website, blog or YouTube. It is likely that these same teens would engage in a similar form of harassment if the gossip website was not available. Social networking will continue to evolve, and matters of anonymity will have to be addressed in order to preserve freedom of speech. Once again- rude and hateful speech usually emanates from emotionally unstable individuals that do not have the ability to control themselves or recognize the ramifications of their actions. It is the recommendation of Silent Sender that the government of Germany refocus it's efforts on educating teens about personal responsibility and accountability while surfing online. They can begin doing this by supporting German families and providing useful guidelines about online social etiquette. Most young adults follow the rules and thrive on structure. The only way to combat anarchy is by giving the chaos structure that comes from within. Encouraging strong family values and making teens accountable for their actions both online and offline will reinforce a safer more civilized online community, regardless of the website, digital forum or playground.

Anonymous messaging and the ability to send anonymous emails or engage one another in anonymous social networking venues is an important part of society and an innate right that should never be quelled. Abusers of this privilege should not "be a precedent" for eliminating or suppressing this freedom.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Anonymous Letter On Twitter Urges Overthrow Of Chinese Government

It has been over a month since an anonymous message on Twitter called people to gather in various Chinese cities to protest against the Chinese government. For the last month, each week has seen increasingly higher numbers of suggested cities, and each week the Twitter'er still cheerfully claims that such actions will slowly take down the totalitarian government. Despite the call to action - what little protesters there were have silently disappeared into the shadows of ambuity. The entire effort has pretty much slipped back into the shadows of uncertainty, however that's not the same for the government crackdown.

Dissidents and protesters are quietly disappearing in the middle of the night or an their way home from work. Many are being detained for "questioning". China takes protests against the establish quite seriously as we can all recall from the events in 1989 at Tienanmen Square where protesters and students were openly fired upon and killed by government police.

The anonymous letter posted in Twitter continues to urge a call to action, but the movement seems to have died down for now. It is important to pause here and consider the ramifications of an anonymous message posted online. Clearly- we have seen the powerful impact of social networking on the Middle East turmoil over the last three months. The ability to reach out to the masses, anonymously, in efforts to organize people can have a profound effect. But without leadership or a clear mandate- efforts likes these are quickly quelled in countries like China. Click the mouse at the wrong moment in time or show up at a flash mob and you might disappear too. Let's all hope that these rumors are unfounded or over-exaggerated.

Anonymous messaging and the ability safely surf the web anonymously, post anonymous comments and enjoy anonymous social networking are a part of our society and culture; this is a reflection of the freedom that we are granted under the Constitution of the United States.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

The of Nature Online Anonymity Part 2

The of Nature Online Anonymity Part 2

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Anonymous Tip Exposes Perverted Babysitter


Brandon Alexander Rankins
An El Paso County man babysitting children was arrested on the possible likelihood of sexually assaulting several young children, according to the Colorado Springs Gazette. They stated that law enforcement began investigating the accused offender after an anonymous message was posted in an on-line Army wives forum. Court records verified that the man is the son of an active duty soldier. The Gazette also reported that the children, all less the 10 years old, described how the alleged offender coerced them into sex acts. The man has been set free on a $10,000 bond and is due for a a court appearance on April 8. He is facing 25 felony counts in the alleged abuse, which authorities believe started last July.

Unfortunately, these acts of perversion are a daily occurrence in our country and around the world. Many of these acts of abuse ever see the light of day. Thankfully, there were some socially and morally responsible people willing to reach out to authorities to intervene in the case in El Paso. Most of the time, people who may actually suspect abuse or criminal activity will fail to do anything because they fear that they are somehow going to get dragged into it.

The pending investigation of this likely abuser will now be possible because of an anonymous message. Being able to send an anonymous message is an important tool in the fight against abuse, crime and corruption.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Monday, March 28, 2011

Anonymous Social Networking - Formspring, Tumblr and Ask taking more heat

There continues to be a steady and consistent effort to make parents and teens aware of the dangers they could encounter while on-line. However, it seems that there is less and less emphasis being put on the predatory (stranger-danger) aspect of social networking and more emphasis on cyber-bullying and anonymous commenting. There has been an intensified effort not just in the U.S. but globally to quell the increasing popularity of anonymous forums where users can leave anonymous comments. These forums often contain statements that are cruel and hurtful and sometimes directed at a specific individual. This form of bullying is being portrayed as something "different" than schoolyard bullying because the audience is so much greater and the impact more severe.

Silent Sender has addressed the issues of cyber-bullying and has suggested that the root of bullying is in the home and school, not in cyberspace. The fact that anonymous venues exist for teens to vent or express themselves isn't in itself the problem. Teens and young adults have to sort through very complex social issues and the internet has become the place to do it. Emotional conflict and low self-esteem are not a byproduct of being jealous that a friend on Facebook has 1000+ friends and they only have 25 but more likely a natural and normal process of emotional development. A new study suggests that Facebook may actually "cause" depression amongst emotionally vulnerable users because they may perceive a lack of on-line contacts as a failure on their part (or, believe that nobody likes them). The same doctors also admit that social networking sites may not "cause" new occurrences of depression but may be an extension of an ongoing depressive state. More about the Facebook story can be found here.

There is no doubt that social networking sites create an opportunity for abuse. Even non-anonymous forums still allow anonymity because anyone can create a fake email address and setup an account with false credentials. Demonizing social networking sites and "Question" forums because they encourage cyber-bullying is a big reach. Doing away with such sites will just open up new opportunities for teens to socialize in other digital venues that let them express themselves- and the potential for abuse will still exist.

Anonymous messaging and the ability to send an anonymous email and socialize anonymously are important and valuable aspect of the on-line experience.

In the following weeks, Silent Sender will be conducting a survey of users from these sites to fairly gauge the opinions of those users in order to identify the usefulness of anonymous social networking sites and forums. Some preliminary research has already been conducted and initial results are quite surprising. Check back often to find out what we learn.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Friday, March 25, 2011

iShareGossip Anonymous Gossip Website Targeted

The German Family Minister has cyber-bullying in his cross hairs and it's looking like on-line gossip website iShareGossip is in the line of fire. Several weeks back we reported on the increasingly critical attacks of social networking websites with that have an anonymous forum or venue for their users. Formspring has fallen under the critical eyes of parents who fear the website is a haven for sex offenders and on-line predators. Germany is declaring that they are going to take a hard-line stance against cyber-bullying and websites that facilitate it.

The announcement from Germany's Family Minister followed just days after a highly-publicized incident where a 17-year-old in Berlin was beaten-up as an online dispute turned into real-world violence. The victim had apparently tried to confront the boyfriends of a group of girls who had been insulting his girlfriend on the website 'iShareGossip.' As a result of the incident, Family Minister Schröder said she has requested the government youth media watchdog to consider monitoring the site and indexing it. This would effectively make it inaccessible to German search engines. However, it would not prevent direct traffic or traffic via a proxy server from reaching the site.

Schröder told the Wiesbadener Kurier, "No one needs to try to make this into a debate about censorship, here are young people viciously insulting one another and dragging the reputations of others - particularly young girls - through the dirt under the cloak of anonymity."

But this is about censorship. Keeping young people from expressing themselves (whether hurtful or not) and blacklisting websites only makes it more attractive. Demeaning on-line speech that contains hurtful or harmful comments posted about someone on-line will never go away, regardless of being posted anonymously or not. There is no doubt that cyber-bullying is wrong and should be curtailed. But getting back to the basics is where the answers can be found.

Just like real-world bullying, teaching teens conflict resolution and how to be self-confident negates the effects of hurtful or demeaning comments, whether in real life or on-line. This is the nature of adolescence. What happened to "sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me?" Have we become that overly sensitive about our own self-images; so emotionally defenseless that we allow words to hurt us? Granted- teens are particularly sensitive at this stage of emotional development. However, even a teen has enough emotional and intellectual capacity to "know" how to handle being a victim of bullying. Also, parents and schools can embed more lessons on the ethical dilemmas of on-line activities in their own parenting style and school lesson plans.

You cannot expect an adult, even a government official such as the "Family Minister", to step into the shoes of a teen and understand the world of social networking in the eyes of a teen. And teens don't understand the ramification of their actions or the power of anonymity. Silent Sender would suggest that the preservation of anonymity and freedom of speech should always prevail, while efforts to correct abhorrent behavior such as any form of bullying be handled by the parents of those teens. We do not need any government using this as a precedent for limiting on-line speech. It only creates resentment and ultimately can lead to civil dissidence. In the meantime, there are "adjustments" that these websites can make to monitor comments for potentially harmful or abusive language without throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

Anonymous messaging and anonymous email are important tools. Websites that offer freedom of speech though anonymity are no less important then being able to send an anonymous "letter to the editor" of a newspaper. We can all do a better job at curtailing the abusive side of anonymity by thinking before we "click."

If you would like to know more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Friday, March 18, 2011

Rat Poison Hamburgers Exposed By Anonymous Tip

How would you like it if you recently discovered that your hamburger dutifully prepared in the kitchen of an Annapolis Maryland Fuddruckers had been sitting in preparation for consumption on a tray full of rat poison? You would probably be pretty disturbed and grossed out.

An anonymous tip led the local health department to conduct a surprise inspection of the establishment revealing trays of raw hamburger meat in a walk-in freezer peppered with rat poison pellets.The restaurant was ordered immediately closed and workers disposed of the tainted and exposed meat. After the tipster's report, the investigator assured that the rat pellets were discovered quickly. "It was in the refrigerator area, so it was not difficult for the inspectors to find," she said.

I am not sure what it more worrisome- potential exposure to rat poison, or the knowledge that someone believed the rat infestation at that location was bad enough to place the poison in such close proximity to the food. Or, even worse- did someone intentionally intend on poisoning the food.

Silent Sender applauds the anonymous tipster who came forward with this potentially life saving information.The ability to provide anonymous tips through anonymous messaging or whatever means continues to demonstrate that anonymity is critical to preventing crime or alerting the general public to a potentially dangerous situation.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Anonymous tip to the IRS pays of to the tune of $1.1 million

Who says you can't make money on Wall Street anymore? Apparently there isn't a shortage of insider information either. An anonymous Wall Street banker just hit pay-dirt when his investment in going anonymous paid gains of  $1.1 million for reporting a massive tax fraud by Enron, Bankers Trust and others. The anonymous tip first came to the attention of attorney Erika A. Kelton of Phillips and Cohen back in 1999. The reward  is one of the first rewards issued by a five-year old Whistleblower Office at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Kelton's anonymous client will be handsomely rewarded for her key role in exposing corporate corruption.

Monetizing and rewarding anonymous tipsters clearly pays off, not just for the IRS, but for society as a whole. Financial incentives should be used whenever possible to compel people to come forward with information that will expose corruption. The ability to send an anonymous email or message has never been more important. Providing financial rewards is great, but people also need to feel safe and secure when going out on a limb with potentially explosive information. Silent Sender salutes the anonymous tipster for their brave actions.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Formspring Social Networking Site Falls Under Critical Eyes Of Parents

A popular social networking website favored by teens is under fire by parents for its "anonymous" components. Launched in late 2009, the site has gained in popularity primarily because it offers the user the ability to ask all kinds of questions within the community without providing their identities. Opponents of the social networking site are referring to it as a breeding ground for predators and bullies.

The hook for teenagers is that Formspring is geared at getting to know your friends by asking questions anonymously. However, some people feel it is creating a venue for hurtful or perhaps harmful language. Frankly- it is the opinion of Silent Sender that teens likely already use a myriad of websites to accomplish the same thing, such as Yahoo! Answers, Wiki Answers and Askville, where anyone can post an anonymous question in a public forum. The threat of cyber-bullying does not originate from within the social networking medium- it begins with "how" our children are raised and parented. If kids aren't taught personal responsibility and accountability- they often act without considering the outcome

"A lot of parents just don't know it even exists," says SecureState Senior Security Consultant Tom Eston. "It is really up to the parent to get involved in their kids' lives and just communicate with them on a basic level and I think the kids will open up," admits Eston.

The ability to ask for information or gather information on-line while remaining anonymous is a fundamental right, especially if the questions are embarrassing. The adult equivent might be a forum helping men with erectile dysfunction. One might argue that sex addicts or worse may be trolling the forum. However, in cases where this power is being abused there should be some kind of effort to educate those who take advantage of anonymity to hurt others. Teenagers are teenagers and many make poor decisions in real life and on-line. The ability to send an anonymous message should require some thought before anyone clicks "send." A good reminder that stupid actions have consequences begins with good parenting. Talk to your kids about the ramifications of making poorly thought out choices while on-line or in the real world.

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Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Monday, March 14, 2011

"Textual" Harassment Case Over Anonymous Text Claiming Infidelity

A Naples Florida couple recently filed a defamation lawsuit against an unknown entity for sending a text message claiming that one of the spouses were having an affair with an employ. The whole incident was made worse by the fact that the husband and wife were celebrating the wife's 45th birthday when the text message arrived on the wife's cell phone. The text message came in anonymously and they did not recognize the phone number. They hired an attorney to get to the bottom of the anonymous message. The lawsuit allows the attorney to start serving subpoenas to trace the origin of the message.

The couple's lawsuit, filed in Collier Circuit Court, alleges the anonymous texter knew the text message was made-up and defamatory, creating severe emotional stress for the couple. The lawsuit, assigned to Circuit Judge, seeks damages of $15,000 or more.

Harassment and defamatory comments are on the rise in electronic mediums such as the internet, SMS texting, blogs and social networking sites. So are requests for subpeonas to sequester information that would reveal the identites of anonymous commenters, e-mailers and texters. Thirty-seven states, including Florida, have passed cyberharassment laws. Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington focus on texting in addition to e-mails, blogs, the Internet and other forms of electronic communication, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Silent Sender has always expressed the important of "thinking before you click". If you want to send an anonymous message you better make sure you are not abusing the power of anonymity for nefarious purposes. Unfortunately, valuable tools like anonymous email can be used for "good" and "bad". With great power comes great responsibility.

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Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Corporate America Takes A Second Look At "Whistleblowing"

Regulators and corporate compliance offices are re-examining practices surrounding anonymous tips involving corporate corruption. There have been some recent cases where anonymous tips resulted in allegations, but without evidence, the tips became hearsay.

The saga regarding the French automotive maker Renault began last August, when a group of Renault managers passed on an anonymous tip accusing a senior Renault official of negotiating a bribe.

Four months later, Renault in January 2011 dismissed the executive and two other managers. The employees proclaimed their innocence, but the company's chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, stated publicly that the company had evidence against them. But, over the past two months, Renault and its lawyers have failed to produce any evidence against the trio.

Renault is now admitting that they may have been "tricked" into making the allegations and the company is preparing  to reinstate the three managers for lack of evidence.

While anonymous tips are important and vital to exposing corruption- a tip is just a tip unless it leads investigators to damaging evidence against the accused. An anonymous tip should always include some kind of evidence for the allegation(s) being made or the tip may not be taken seriously. Corporate America  typically responds to anonymous tips of corruption with a knee-jerk reaction, shoot and ask questions later. Allegations are really only "gossip" unless they include information or identify where information can be found pertaining to the allegations.

Anonymous messaging and the use of anonymous email to expose corporate corruption or any crime is an important tool to bring criminals to justice.

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Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

The 10 Biggest Mistakes You Can Make On-line


1. I am anonymous while on-line 

Nope- Just because you can't be seen doesn't mean you can't be found

I saved this little goodie for last because it is near and dear to my heart. People foolishly believe that they are effectively anonymous while on-line. This false sense of security if just that, false.
Read more about how anonymous messaging can help keep you out of trouble by clicking here.



Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Anonymous emails no longer anonymous?

Individuals who endeavor to remain anonymous when they send information over the web using different anonymous email and anonymous messaging services use these services to ensure the information they share with others cannot be traced back to them. There are equally good and bad uses for sending anonymous emails. Most people use anonymous email and anonymous messaging for legitimate and legal purpose. However- like any method of communication, whether it be smoke signals, secret decoder rings or a simple anonymous letter sent through the mail; there are always individuals that will use anonymity for nefarious purposes. It is critically important to keep this in perspective, since anonymity is a component of right to freedom of speech.

Researchers from Concordia University in Montreal claim they have devised a method to determine the authorship of anonymous emails. The technique utilizes data mining routines as well as syntax comparison modeling to identity patterns in speech and grammatical syntax to match the content of a message to a message of a "known" sender. In essence- this is a form of digital profiling that looks for patterns in writing (similar to techniques used in criminal forensics) between multiple emails to reveal consistencies (or inconsistencies) that would otherwise be undetectable by just examining a small pool of emails.

The purpose of the study is to combat the rapid increase in cybercrime. Identity theft is a primary consumer complaint of 2010 and is frequently committed by sending malware via anonymous emails.  Law enforcement officials typically use IP addresses to locate the residence where the email originated. However, IP addresses can come from a closed network where one outgoing IP address services several internal sub-addresses (ie: a hotel or internet hot spot). So- the only way to determine the author of an anonymous email is to identify the patterns found in emails written by the subject. This generates a unique or distinctive digital fingerprint.

So- is the end of anonymous messaging or anonymous email? Absolutely not. I would propose this simple solution. There are article writing tools that a lot of content copywriters and SEO professionals use every day to "spin" articles for SEO purposes. The way this works is you write some content (perhaps a blog or article) but then assign variables to the structure and syntax of the content. You provide replacement words and phrase that are randomly replaced each time you "spin" the article. With enough variables (or variants of a given word, phrase or sentence) an endless number or spun content could be generated. A similar process could be employed with the content of emails (kind of like money laundering for content)  the end result would be a randomly generated varriant of the original email. Removing any writing style or personal traits that might reflect the senders writing style. So- nice try... but  these researches just blew a ton of money on a process that is easily circumvented by a little creative thinking. People using anonymous messaging for legal purposes probably wouldn't even care about the profiling measures since they aren't engaging in illegal activities. But if the SPAMMERS and identity thieves are going to continue to use anonymous emails to conduct their illegal activities, they will certainly come up with creative "work-arounds" much more ingenious then the simple "fix" demonstrated above. A final issue to consider is that most cyber-crime activities originate from networks outside the U.S. and the jurisdiction of the U.S. criminal justice system. Therefor, if they actually identify an anonymous sender engaged in criminal activity; contending with jurisdiction and international law would present a significant hurdle, especially in countries such as Russia and their ex-Soviet satellites where a great deal of cyber-crime and criminal internet activity originates.

Therefore, if you are concerned about some furturistic server profiling your emails (anonymous or not) and trying to identify your wrtiing patterns, have no fear- once you run the content of your message though a spining program or similar content re-writer, the essence of the information will remain intact, but any pattern in writing style will be diffused and become generalized and no-longer unique.

Silent Sender is on the forefront of protecting your identity and your right to anonymity and freedom of speech through the use on anonymous messaging.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Monday, March 7, 2011

Anonymous Jury For Trial In Chicago Granted By State And Federal Courts

Could anonymous juries be the next greatest thing in the world of anonymity? Maybe. In Chicago, federal prosecutors are asking for an anonymous jury in the pending trial of an accused terrorist, for the security of the jurors. Also, remember the Blagojevich case? The judge presiding over the former Illinois Governor's trial has proclaimed that the identities of the jurors in the retrial will indeed remain anonymous until the following morning after the proceedings. Once again, the intent is to protect the jurors from harm or harassment. This precedent for anonymous juries opens the door to greater protections for all citizens.

It is well known that the media does not favor anonymous juries. They contend that this information should be in the public domain, and that jurors should be held more accountable when their identities are known. But really, what should they be held accountable for? The jury selection process and veil of secrecy surrounding juries during trials have always been a media focal point. Jurors participating in proceedings involving networks of sympathizers (such as terrorist and organized crime) should always be permitted to remain anonymous until the proceedings have been completed.

One argument against anonymous juries is that it gets in the way of the jury interviewing/selection process. If they answer selection questionnaires anonymously, some would argue it creates disparities and jurors can answer the questions dishonestly. But this argument goes both ways since jurors could respond more honestly (because their identities are protected).

Either way, this is good for citizens that have to participate in controversial trials where they may be in danger of intimidation or retribution. The ability to remain anonymous by sending an anonymous message or conveying information anonymously is critical to the safety of all people.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Anonymous tip and a cigarette butt leads to capture of "East Coast Rapist" Suspect

Aaron Thomas
Aaron Thomas, 39 - an accused rapist with DNA evidence connecting him to at least 12 victims of sexual assault and rape is on suicide watch after he tried to hang himself in his jail cell one day after being arrested. Mr. Thomas is no worse for wear after the attempt and was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. He was given a clean bill of health but is being closely observed in case he attempts to take his life a second time.


The breakthrough that ultimately led to the arrest of Thomas came to Virginia police in the form of an Anonymous tip. While under surveillance, investigators tested a discarded cigarette they had observed him smoking and had the DNA cross-referenced with the DNA from the 12 victims from Maryland, Virginia, Connecticut and Rhode Island. The assaults spanned a period of twelve years between 1997 and 2009. Thomas was quickly arrested when genetic material (DNA) matched DNA preserved from the earlier cases. He was taken into custody on Friday.


A spokesperson for the Prince William County police department, informed members of the media that the combined work of a recently formed multiagency task force and an anonymous tip helped spur the investigation and lead to the arrest of Thomas.


Thankfully, citizens still have faith in anonymity. As long as the ability to provide an anonymous tip via anonymous messaging or any system that protects the identity of the informant remains available- monsters like Thomas will ultimately face the criminal justice system. As they say... "someone always knows something" ... and by not getting actively involved, the tipster effectively made the apprehension of Thomas possible. Chalk one up for anonymity.


If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.


Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Failed Anonymous Letter Experiment "Failure" or Failed Test of Anonymity?

The results are in regarding a controversial experiment carried out to determine whether or not offering anonymity via anonymous letters to the editor for commenting purposes would result in an increase in comments. The Freeman Courier in Freeman, S.D. conducted the study over a 6 month period and has revealed that anonymity does not lead to a significant increase in letters to the editor.

Unfortunately- there is considerable "error" in this experiment. The newspaper hoped it could increase letters to the editors by protecting the identity of commenters. The newspaper included one caveot that most likely affected the experiment and the ultimate outcome. Commenters could write in anonymously but have to reveal their true identities to the publisher. The publisher would "promise" to keep their identities secret. This experiment was self-defeating from the start. You cannot offer people freedom of speech through anonymity but turn around and tell them before they can be anonymous they need to provide their identifying information.

The conclusions made by the newspaper that the experiment "failed" are both true and inaccurate at the same time. It was a failed experiment from the beginning because it was not really measuring the impact or "effect" of anonymity on readers willingness to participate in editorial debate. If their comments were ultimately considered defamatory or controversial the publisher may be pressured or subpenaed to provide the true identities of the commenter. So, it is true- the experiment failed.

However, it is inaccurate to say that readers would not participate "more" by using anonymity to provide comments to the editor if they were truly anonymous. Sending an anonymous letter with the caveot of putting a veritable return address on it defeats the purpose of anonymity.

Anonymous messaging and the ability to send an anonymous message is a effective tool as long as individuals believe they are actually protected by the veil of anonymity. It is the belief that they are protected from reprisal and retribution that gives people the impetus to use anonymous speech.

If you would like to learn more about this story from its original source please click here.


Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Send Anonymous Email - Anonymous Messaging

Send Anonymous Email - Anonymous Messaging

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Online Posters Under Fire From Defamation Ruling

A defamation ruling made by a Marion County, IN Judge is making anonymous posters liable for what they say online. The ruling made by the judge stated that what you say online, even if it is made anonymously, may come back to bite you.

As part of an investigation pertaining to a defamation lawsuit, several local news media outlets were forced to turn over user information about commenters from their websites. The data would effectively provide authorities with the ability to track down and identify posters accused of defaming comments. This dangerous precedent essentially limits opinionated speech. This ruling may become problematic for posters who enjoy voicing their opinions on websites like Facebook and other similar social networking mediums.

A constituional lawyer familiar with the case stated, "opinions expressed online are protected. However, posting something as fact about someone else, with the intent to harm them, could count as defamation of character in the eye of the court. Waples said posting defamatory comments online is essentially the same as publishing them which does meet the requirement for a lawsuit. Posting on a news website doesn't necessarily protect your identity if you're not considered a source."

Clearly, there is a fine line people walk everyday when it comes to expressing themselves and their opinions online. Precedents that come equally close to infringing on freedom of speech can be particularly dangerous and could lead to greater efforts to quell the flow opinionated speech. Anonymous messaging and the ability to send an anonymous message still remains a viable tool to communicate with the authorities, media, friends and family. However- if the developments in Indiana are a sign of things to come, it may not be long before your right to communicate incognito is no longer "your right".

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source, please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Anonymous Messaging - YouTube Video


Take a few minutes to see how easy anonymous messaging can be.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Friday, February 25, 2011

Anonymous Group Mulls Campaign To Ouster Muskegon County Prosecutor

Evan Emory
An anonymous group is reacting (or perhaps overreacting) to a case of child pornography charges brought against a local man (Evan Emory) who edited and posted a video of himself singing sexually explicit lyrics to a class of first-graders. The group is contemplating a recall campaign  against the county prosecutor because they feel the charge was to harsh. The Muskegon County Prosecutor, Tony Tague, stated that the group was probably misinformed about state sentencing guidelines and went on to explain that a 20-year sentence was unlikely.

The anonymous recall group has not responded to requests for interviews and as of 3:00 PM Thursday, no one had filed a petition with the Muskegon County clerk’s office to initiate the recall process.

The anonymous group has been using Facebook to mobilize its campaign and sent out a anonymous news release that they “may be on the verge of moving forward with a campaign” contingent on some positive responses on its Facebook page. The group's page can be found here. It currently has 285 followers (or Likes).

This is another example of how people are using anonymity and anonymous messaging on Facebook and other social networking websites to express their opinions and try and affect change in their communities.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Thursday, February 24, 2011

SW Virginia School Taking On Bulleying With Anonymous Email

Let's here it for "common sense!" A south-western Virgina high school has implemented a new program to tamp down on cases of cyber-bullying.  Kids and parents can use Facebook, an email, or fill out a form on the school's website to report concerns. If they prefer, they can do it anonymously. The initiative is called the "Safe Share" web program.

Officials have high hopes that it will be effective, because the reporting can be done anonymously.

A direct quote from TJ Slaughter, School Safety Coordinator was, "A lot of times they want to pass along information, but they don't know who to give the information to or they're afraid to pass along the information for fear of retaliation." This method of conveying information, that could help a kid or save a life, can now be communicated without the fear of getting in touble or getting caught in the middle.

Silent Sender applauds the Martinsville City Schools for their common sense approach to making the disemination of sensitive information easier and safer for the kids in their communities. Being able to send an an anonymous email or anonymous message is the key to getting more people to come forward.

If you would like to read more about this story from its original source please click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Anonymous Facebook Goup Gunning For CNU President's Resignation


A Facebook page calling for the firing of Christopher Newport University President Paul Trible has been created by an anonymous user. It seems that the creator of the page is revealing (while not substantiated) the faculty’s intentions to move ahead with a vote of no confidence against Trible and Provost Mark Padilla. It is important to understand that a vote of no confidence by faculty members does not necessarily lead to resignation, instead it signals the faculty’s opposition to their leadership and agenda. At the very least, an embarrassing attack.

Facebook has proven once again it has a powerful voice. Similar to what we saw several weeks back with a Facebook group of anonymous followers referred to as the “Honour Revloution” (calling for citizens of Gaza to take to the streets and protest with the aim of toppling the government); this new group is empowered by anonymity. The anonymous members can voice their opinions and influence public opinion without the fear of retribution or personal attacks. The name of the Facebook page is “Christopher Newport-Faculty”.

This manner of communicating anonymously is becoming more and more common. As people realize the great power they have through anonymity they flock to social networking sites and the media to reveal opinions, secrets and scandals. While some prefer to send an anonymous message or simply hide behind an anonymous social profile, others still rely on the old tried and true method of sending an anonymous letter.

If you would like to read more about the story from its original source click here.

Discover how to send an anonymous email - Go Silent! The Truth Will Set You Free...

How To Send Anonymous Email - Anonymous Messaging