I just joined the site but am noticing not many people have a picture of themself as their avi. Is it a mistake to do this?

I would imagine that any woman who has a photo of herself, or a provocative avatar, is going to get "weird' messages solely because she's a woman. Of course, that also means men can use pictures of women so they can get 'weird' messages from men too.
If it's a problem maybe you can change your avatar to something innocuous and see if if slows down. Although your user name might be enough to motivate the dudes who can't handle online anonymity. Have to guess those are the guys who aren't cutting it in 'real life' with women.

[c=#BF0080]It's all up to you. I don't say anything I wouldn't in my real life so I don't feel I need to be anonymous.[/c]

I think its a personal choice, when I first joined I used my real pic but over time my decision changed because I no longer felt comfortable.

It's really up to you, if you feel comfortable with it.

If someone asks me for a picture, and I feel like it's okay to do that, then I'll send it. But so far, I have met a lot of creepy people.

Actually there is no pleasing any one on here just do your thing and be respectful to other people.

I use half my face.
Still showing what I look like while maintaining some sort of anti-stalking privacy

There are no publicly accessible pictures of me on the Internet. I've been very careful about this over the years and I'm not about to change that policy now.

I guess you'll have to decide for yourself....if many people don't reveal themselves...there's probably a valid reason

This is an anonymous site, so basically one's avatar needn't be a personal photo or something that can identify you. What people choose to reveal to each other as they make friends here is something else, but of course caution makes sense then, too. 🙂

a lot of creepy guys are on this site.. people try to stay anonymous to keep away from them.

I don't use mine because they show up in Google searches

It's no big deal. I like seeing people's faces if they are who they really are. It's a nice change.

For a female here it probably is more of a "Nuisance" if you use a full pic.

Not the best idea

So change your avatar...

I think if you are a woman, no matter what your avi is, you are going to get a lot of "weird" responses. Just remember, you can block those that are sending you weird messages. Be sure to check out their groups too, it maybe someone you have a lot in common with.

Me too.

If you feel confident, go for it!
I used my personal photo on EP for three years and the first 9 months here. Just enjoying a chess theme atm

I just enjoy my privacy. I need a place where nobody I know can identify me.

Ignore the perverts

No response and muting them
Eventually you'll have the top 10 trouble causers gone

Most people want to remain anonymous here...that could be the reason...or they are just shy...I'm both lol

I don't use my whole face because I had a stalker. Some use their face and others don't. It is a personal decision.

As this is more of an annomous website I think a picture is not as necessary.

Welcome Lisette...I usually will share in PM if ppl want to see me.

Lots use this for a dating site.

I would suggest something generic. Wd can be pervs here

I use my picture! Hey I see you are in the Midwest too!

Like what

how willing are you to be bullied? have your identity stolen? you family stalked? your pictures ripped and your name slandered?

When you're pretty like me, (my profile pic is me) You need to be careful.

My picture is on my about you page.. profile...

been here a short time, am getting one up

Well if it is you can join me then!

Ah yeah

😒