Tag Archives: “06880” comments

“All commenters must use full, real names.”

That’s been an “06880” rule for over a decade.

Occasionally, readers question the identity of another commenter.

When that happens, I first see if I can find any online mention of the writer — first in Westport, then anywhere else.

Failing that, I send an email. I ask for verification that the writer is who they say they are. I won’t post the info, I tell them — but I need to know they’re legit.

If it bounces back, the comment is deleted. If it’s a real email address, I wait for a reply verifying their identity. If I don’t get one within a day, I delete the comment.

Reviewing yesterday’s comments on a story about Staples High School coaches, I found 2 email domains — attached to very strong, arguably inflammatory comments — that, my security software said, are highly risky, and often used to obscure true identities.

I gave the commenters until 6 a.m. today to confirm their identities. I have not heard back, so I deleted both comments. Responses to their comments were also deleted.

I will reinstate them, if the commenters email 06880blog@gmail.com, and prove their names are real.

I will not post their personal information, or share it with anyone. But I need to know that every commenter is who they say they are.

I want to ensure that all readers take part in a meaningful community discussion, on this — and every other — important issue.

And that when readers weigh in, everyone else can evaluate where that speaker is coming from.