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An online identity is a social identity that
network users establish in online communities.
Although some people prefer to use their real
names online, most Internet users prefer to
identify themselves by means of pseudonyms,
which reveal varying amounts of personally
identifiable information. In some online
contexts, including Internet forums, MUDs,
instant messaging, and massively multiplayer
online games, users can represent themselves
visually by choosing an avatar, an icon-sized
graphic image. As other users interact with an
established online identity, it acquires a
reputation, which enables them to decide whether
the identity is worthy of trust.
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