Introduction The usage of actual identities online has become a catalyst for change, influencing the dynamics of responsibility and openness in digital interactions in a world where the real and virtual blend together fluidly. Adoption of real name regulations by online platforms has sparked a discussion about the ramifications for user behavior and the larger online community as they balance security and privacy. In order to better understand how real names affect trust, authenticity, and the core of online identity, this study explores the transforming potential of actual names in the online space. Come along as we dissect the nuances of the real names controversy and examine how this digital revolution has affected how we interact with the internet.
Enhanced Trust and Credibility: Using real names online fosters trust and credibility among users as it links actions and interactions to real identities reducing the likelihood of fraudulent behavior or misinformation. Trulioo highlights the importance of building digital trust for successful online interactions, As people’s lives increasingly shift online, digital trust has become the key ingredient to successful business models. Some aspects of digital trust are legally required, some rely on robust technology and others derive from organizations conveying their ethical standards. “But most importantly,” according to a 2021 Harvard Business Review report, “any economy’s trust-building interventions — at both the institutional and individual level — must be proactive, forward-looking, and fine-tuned to the unique behaviors, attitudes, experiences, and environment of its digital ecosystem.” Establishing digital trust creates confidence that online interactions and transactions are safe. Organizations build that trust by reassuring people the business is real and handles financial and personal information securely, reliably and ethically. Under other legal requirements, such as the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation and the California Consumer Privacy Act, organizations must have policies and procedures for collecting and using personally identifiable information (PII data). Some industries also have requirements around using health or credit information.Digital trust in those cases is mandated. The information is so important that governments have created penalties around its misuse. It’s a safe bet there will be more laws and regulations enforcing best practices as innovations continue to transform the digital environment.Organizations lacking smart data security, privacy and responsibility measures can find themselves constantly scrambling to meet compliance and minimum standards. Those that understand the importance of trust in a digital world can build a competitive advantage. PwC’s 2022 Consumer Intelligence Series Survey on Trust Trust in the digital age is not simply between two parties. There are myriad connected devices, algorithms, data collections, third parties, cross-border transfers and innovations such as artificial intelligence, autonomous organizations and digital twins that require trust. There are entire supply chains of interconnections that are potential sources of errors, leaks, misuse, inaccuracies, breaches and points of failure. Verifying and authenticating people and machines along the entire trust chain is imperative to protecting data, businesses and customers. A 2022 World Economic Forum reportsupported the importance of identity verification, calling identity a core component of building digital trust. Beyond identity verification, organizations Meeting the needs for digital trust A 2020 Trulioo Consumer Account Opening Report found that consumers consider security to be the top factor in an optimal account creation process. In general, without offering trust, businesses risk losing potential customers to other providers. Offering trust extends to how companies select their vendors. Price and performance are important, but finding trusted vendors is also crucial. A 2019 Accenture report found that “if all companies collaborate to impose high standards on partner organizations, businesses can expect to save up to US$2.6 trillion.” Meeting customer expectations and regulatory requirements for digital trust can help organizations drive business, minimize risk and build a safer world.
Increased Accountability and Responsibility: Real name policies promote accountability by
holding individuals responsible for their online conduct, leading to a more respectful and civil online environment: like The Identifiability, Risk, and Information Credibility in Discussions on Moral/Ethical Violation Topics on Chinese Social Networking Sites by (Xi Chen,Chenli Huang and Xi Cheng)One heated argument in recent years concerns whether requiring real name supervision on social media will inhibit users' participation in discoursing online speech. The current study explores the impact of identification, perceived anonymity, perceived risk, and information credibility on participating in discussions on moral/ethical violation events on social network sites (SNS) in China. The complex integration of the internet and the real world means that in both the West and China, cyberspace has become the most convenient place for free expression, which is constrained by social norms and conformity (Lipschultz, 2018) In fact, culture is shaped by reality. When real lives are mapped onto virtual cyberspace in a hidden form, this principle of superficial balance is no longer important (Chen, 2018). This is because anonymity is now seen by some as dangerous due to the following factors: issues in the protection of business transaction security (Chen et al., 2019) China is in a social transformation period, bringing a high degree of uncertainty to people’s lives. The prevalent practice of concealing their true views for self-protection makes Chinese netizens present more complex mentalities and more diversified modes of behavior than before the construction of cyber identity (Chen, 2018). This also suggests that anonymous expression online plays a crucial role in alleviating potential pressure in real society and relieving the latent contradictions and conflicts. However, no empirical research has been conducted on the impact of a lack of anonymity on expression of public opinion on moral/ethical matters. The exploration of this impact mechanism is an important basis for establishing identity management and carrying out governance in cyberspace. The current study focuses on Chinese SNS users’ participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics. In China, WeChat and Weibo are the most popular online social platforms that people use to express their opinions (Hou et al., 2018). According to the Social Global Web Index’s flagship 2018 report on the latest trends in social media, Facebook is the world’s largest SNS with more than 2.6 billion users, WeChat is ranked fourteenth, and Weibo is ranked eighteenth; the latter are also the only two Chinese social media platforms listed in the global top 20 (Global Web Index, 2018). At the end of 2019, WeChat had over 1 billion active users around the world. Weibo, which has more than 500 million active users, provides a virtual public space for users to share their opinions with their connected peers, making it the most influential opinion platform in China; this makes it a suitable arena for our research on participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics. To validate our hypotheses, we conducted a survey on the use of WeChat and Weibo by Chinese users. The current research is based on a heated event which provoked discussion all over the world, in which a scientist named He Jiankui announced his work on editing the genes of a fetus. Scientists and authoritative academic institutions from different countries gave their opinions, arguing that He Jiankui had seriously violated academic morals and the code of conduct. What he did also caused an outcry in the international community (Cyranoski and Ledford, 2018; Normile, 2018). His behavior did not only violate scientific ethics, but also had the possibility of polluting the human gene pool and posed a threat to the future of humanity. It was noted that the ethical infractions in this work are among the most egregious that have been recorded in modern medical history since the Second World War (Kuersten and Wexler, 2019). This ethical and moral violation event is significant for the whole of humanity. Data were collected for the current study at the point in time when this gene-editing of a fetus had just occurred, which had attracted the attention of the whole world and had become a heated topic on various SNS. This was important for focusing the participants’ attention on the research issues, and to obtain a clearer understanding on the event. The administered questionnaire consists of three parts, the first of which is a privacy and protection statement and informed consent declaration. The participants read the information carefully and confirmed it. The second part consists of two news reports about the gene-editing fetus event from People’s Daily, which is the most authoritative official media source in China, and the Beijing News, which has a wide influence and is based in Beijing. The reports (a total of 884 words) described the development of the event up to December 18, 2018, providing the objective facts calmly and without emotional appeals. The third part required the participants to complete a survey about the gene- editing situation and their feelings about it. One heated argument in recent years concerns whether requiring real name supervision on social media will inhibit users' participation in discoursing online speech. The current study explores the impact of identification, perceived anonymity, perceived risk, and information credibility on participating in discussions on moral/ethical violation events on social network sites (SNS) in China. The complex integration of the internet and the real world means that in both the West and China, cyberspace has become the most convenient place for free expression, which is constrained by social norms and conformity (Lipschultz, 2018) In fact, culture is shaped by reality. When real lives are mapped onto virtual cyberspace in a hidden form, this principle of superficial balance is no longer important (Chen, 2018). This is because anonymity is now seen by some as dangerous due to the following factors: issues in the protection of business transaction security (Chen et al., 2019) China is in a social transformation period, bringing a high degree of uncertainty to people’s lives. The prevalent practice of concealing their true views for self-protection makes Chinese netizens present more complex mentalities and more diversified modes of behavior than before the construction of cyber identity (Chen, 2018). This also suggests that anonymous expression online plays a crucial role in alleviating potential pressure in real society and relieving the latent contradictions and conflicts. However, no empirical research has been conducted on the impact of a lack of anonymity on expression of public opinion on moral/ethical matters. The exploration of this impact mechanism is an important basis for establishing identity management and carrying out governance in cyberspace. The current study focuses on Chinese SNS users’ participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics. In China, WeChat and Weibo are the most popular online social platforms that people use to express their opinions (Hou et al., 2018). According to the Social Global Web Index’s flagship 2018 report on the latest trends in social media, Facebook is the world’s largest SNS with more than 2.6 billion users, WeChat is ranked fourteenth, and Weibo is ranked eighteenth; the latter are also the only two Chinese social media platforms listed in the global top 20 (Global Web Index, 2018). At the end of 2019, WeChat had over 1 billion active users around the world. Weibo, which has more than 500 million active users, provides a virtual public space for users to share their opinions with their connected peers, making it the most influential opinion platform in China; this makes it a suitable arena for our research on participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics. To validate our hypotheses, we conducted a survey on the use of WeChat and Weibo by Chinese users. The current research is based on a heated event which provoked discussion all over the world, in which a scientist named He Jiankui announced his work on editing the genes of a fetus. Scientists and authoritative academic institutions from different countries gave their opinions, arguing that He Jiankui had seriously violated academic morals and the code of conduct. What he did also caused an outcry in the international community (Cyranoski and Ledford, 2018; Normile, 2018). His behavior did not only violate scientific ethics, but also had the possibility of polluting the human gene pool and posed a threat to the future of humanity. It was noted that the ethical infractions in this work are among the most egregious that have been recorded in modern medical history since the Second World War (Kuersten and Wexler, 2019). This ethical and moral violation event is significant for the whole of humanity. Data were collected for the current study at the point in time when this gene-editing of a fetus had just occurred, which had attracted the attention of the whole world and had become a heated topic on various SNS. This was important for focusing the participants’ attention on the research issues, and to obtain a clearer understanding on the event. The administered questionnaire consists of three parts, the first of which is a privacy and protection statement and informed consent declaration. The participants read the information carefully and confirmed it. The second part consists of two news reports about the gene-editing fetus event from People’s Daily, which is the most authoritative official media source in China, and the Beijing News, which has a wide influence and is based in Beijing. The reports (a total of 884 words) described the development of the event up to December 18, 2018, providing the objective facts calmly and without emotional appeals. The third part required the participants to complete a survey about the gene- editing situation and their feelings about it. In this study, we examined user participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics on Chinese SNS. To do so, we constructed a model to describe the influence of identification, perceived anonymity, perceived risk, and information credibility. The measurement model has been confirmed, with acceptable convergent and discriminant validity, path coefficients, and model fit.
In this study, we examined user participation in discussions on moral/ethical topics on Chinese
SNS. To do so, we constructed a model to describe the influence of identification, perceived anonymity, perceived risk, and information credibility. The measurement model has been confirmed, with acceptable convergent and discriminant validity, path coefficients, and model fit.
Building Professional Networks: The Role of Real Names in Enhancing Credibility and Authenticity In the digital age, professional networking has evolved significantly, leveraging social media platforms to connect individuals across the globe. One critical factor that enhances these connections is the use of real names online. This practice fosters credibility and authenticity in professional interactions, creating an environment conducive to trust, collaboration, and meaningful relationships. The use of real names in professional networks is not merely a formality but a cornerstone of effective networking. A significant study by Smith (2019) in the Journal of Digital Communication highlights the impact of social networking on professional connections, emphasizing that using real names helps individuals establish credibility. This credibility is vital for professionals seeking to build a trustworthy reputation online. When users interact with identifiable individuals, the likelihood of forming genuine connections increases, as there is a reduced risk of encountering fraudulent or deceptive profiles. Furthermore, Johnson and Wong (2020) in their study published in the International Journal of Business Communication underscore the importance of authenticity in online professional networks. They argue that real names are integral to fostering trust, as they allow for transparency in interactions. Authentic profiles enable users to present their true professional selves, which is crucial for networking, mentorship, and career development. LinkedIn, a leading professional networking platform, enforces the use of real names to maintain a safe and trusted community. According to their professional community policies, LinkedIn aims to ensure that members can express themselves professionally without fear of encountering false information or abusive behavior (LinkedIn Corporation, 2021). This policy supports the notion that real names contribute to a more respectful and secure networking environment, further enabling professionals to focus on building meaningful connections. Adams (2018), in the Journal of Professional Networking, discusses the role of accountability in online professional networks. The use of real names holds individuals accountable for their actions and interactions, thereby reducing instances of misconduct and enhancing the overall quality of professional discourse. Accountability is a key factor in maintaining the integrity of professional networks, ensuring that interactions remain constructive and beneficial. Additionally, Williams and Brown (2021) highlight in their research published in the Journal of Professional Networking that visibility and recognition are crucial in professional online platforms. Real names enhance visibility, allowing professionals to be easily identified and recognized for their contributions and achievements. This visibility is essential for career advancement, as it opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations. In conclusion, requiring the use of real names online significantly enhances professional networking opportunities by establishing credibility, authenticity, and accountability. These elements create a conducive environment for professionals to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships based on trust and transparency. As digital platforms continue to shape the landscape of professional networking, the importance of real names in fostering genuine and effective connections cannot be overstated.
CONCLUSION
Through an in-depth exploration of the real name’s revolution in the online sphere, this study has shed light on the multifaceted implications of using actual identities in digital interactions. The analysis of enhanced trust and credibility has revealed how the adoption of real name policies can foster confidence, security, and authenticity in online engagements. By linking actions to real identities, individuals can establish a foundation of trust that underpins successful online interactions and transactions. Moreover, study Increased accountability and responsibility has underscored the role of real names in promoting a more respectful and civil online environment. By holding individuals accountable for their conduct through real-name policies, online platforms can cultivate a culture of transparency and ethical behavior, ultimately the examination of building professional networks has highlighted the significance of real names in enhancing professional networking opportunities. By requiring real names, professionals can build credibility, transparency, and accountability in their interactions, leading to meaningful collaborations, career advancements, and industry recognition. Overall, findings of this study emphasize the transformative potential of real names in shaping online interactions and identity. By embracing the principles of trust, accountability, and professionalism through the use of real identities, individuals and organizations can navigate the digital landscape with integrity and authenticity. As the digital environment continues to evolve, it is imperative for online platforms to consider the implications of real-name policies on user experience, privacy, and security. By striking a balance between accountability and user protection, online communities can cultivate a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration that benefits individuals and society as a whole.
REFERENCES https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7644537/ National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020). SARS-CoV-2 RNA reverse-transcribed and integrated into the human genome. PubMed Central. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gohttps://www.trulioo.com/blog/fraud- prevention/digital-trust Valkama, P. (2023, June 29). Building digital trust and confidence for online consumers. Trulioo. https://www.trulioo.com/blog/fraud-prevention/digital-trustv/pmc/articles/PMC7644537/ Smith, J. (2019). The Impact of Social Networking on Professional Networking. Journal of Digital Communication, 12(3), 45-67. Johnson, L., & Wong, A. (2020). Authenticity and Trust in Online Professional Networks. International Journal of Business Communication, 25(2), 123-140. LinkedIn Corporation. (2021). LinkedIn User Guide and Policies. Retrieved from [LinkedIn User Guide and Policies] (https://news.linkedin.com/2019/January/our-professional-community- policies) Adams, R. (2018). Accountability in Online Professional Networks. Journal of Professional Networking, 14(1), 78-92. Williams, K., & Brown, T. (2021). Visibility and Recognition in Professional Online Platforms. Journal of Professional Networking, 27(4), 233-251
