I’ve really enjoy reading Kathy Sierra’s blog “Creating Passionate Users” and have linked to it often. It combined lively, intelligent, thought provoking writing with wonderful stylish graphics. To see a new post in the “CPU” feed meant some enlightening and enjoyable reading was ahead.
That changed when I read the post linked below. I should warn that it’s ugly and very unpleasant reading. The preface is Kathy’s:
[Note: This post includes disturbing language and a picture beyond anything I'd normally say here, so some of you might not want to continue reading. But I felt it was important to be specific about as much as the police investigation will allow.]
Creating Passionate Users: Death threats against bloggers are NOT "protected speech" (why I cancelled my ETech presentations)
As I type this, I am supposed to be in San Diego, delivering a workshop at the ETech conference. But I'm not. I'm at home, with the doors locked, terrified…
Kathy, I can only express my support for you at this difficult time. To see someone who has given so much abused so viciously and publicly is beyond disgusting. I hope that those responsible are found and receive the punishment they deserve. Anything less is gross injustice.
Don’t let them destroy your passion.
UPDATE 30–03–2007: Kathy was not the only victim.
What it isn't - The Doc Searls Weblog : Tuesday, March 27, 2007
This morning I recieved an email from Alan Herrell, who has blogged for many years as The Head Lemur:Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2007 07:25:52 -0700
From: alan herrell
To: Doc Searls
Subject: Kathy Sierra
Doc,
(sorry I haven't written before this as I have been doing damage control for my clients)
I am writing this to you as the guy who can forward it to everybody that matters.
I am writing this from a new computer, using an email address that will be deleted at the end of this.
I am no longer me. My main machine despite my best efforts has been hacked, my accounts compromised including my email. and has been disconnected from the internet.
How did this happen? When did this happen? shit doc, i don't have a fucking clue. I thought i was pretty sharp. I guess not.
just about every online account that i have has been compromised. Most importantly my digital identity and user/password for typepad and wordpress. I have been doing damage control, for my clients. How the fuck i got to be part of this mess is revolting.
The Kathy Sierra mess is horrific. I am not who ever used my identity and my picture!! [continues]
