What is a Screen Name? Definition and Privacy Benefits
Question details
The user wants to understand the definition of a screen name and how it helps protect online privacy and security.
- Product
- General Internet Services
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Creating an account or profile for an online service, forum, or gaming platform while trying to maintain anonymity.
- Observed behavior
- A screen name acts as an online alias that others see, masking the user's real name and enhancing overall digital privacy.
Before choosing a screen name for any online service, check the platform's terms of service to confirm whether aliases are permitted or if a real name is required for verification.
Understanding Screen Names and Best Practices
Learn the definition of a screen name and how to create an effective one to maximize your online privacy.
A screen name (often referred to as a username, alias, or handle) is the public identifier you use when interacting on social media, forums, gaming networks, and cloud collaboration tools. Using a screen name prevents strangers from knowing your real-life identity and protects you against potential online security threats.
Determine if the platform is for professional use (where a real name might be expected) or casual interactions (where a screen name is preferred for privacy).
When typing in your new screen name, avoid including your real name, birth year, hometown, or any other personally identifiable information.
Combine random words, hobbies, or unrelated concepts in the account creation menu to form a unique identity that cannot be traced back to you.
How to Set Up a Screen Name in WPS Office
When collaborating on documents via the cloud using WPS Office, you can set a custom screen name (nickname) to protect your real identity while sharing files or leaving comments with external teams.
- 1. Launch WPS Office: Open the WPS Office application on your computer and click on your profile picture located in the top right corner of the home screen.
- 2. Open Account Settings: Click on 'Account Settings' or 'Profile' from the dropdown menu to access your personal dashboard.
- 3. Edit Your Nickname: Locate the 'Nickname' or 'Screen Name' field under your basic information and click the 'Edit' icon.
- 4. Save Your Screen Name: Type in your privacy-friendly screen name and click 'Save'. This alias will now be displayed when you collaborate on cloud documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a screen name the exact same thing as a username?
While frequently used interchangeably, a username is usually the unique internal identifier you use to log into an account, whereas a screen name is the public display name visible to other users. Some websites do use the exact same string for both.
Can I change my screen name after creating my account?
Most platforms allow you to change your screen name through your account settings menu. Navigate to your profile settings and look for a 'Change Display Name' or 'Edit Profile' option. Note that some platforms limit how often you can make this change.
Why is using a screen name better for security?
A screen name obscures your real identity, making it significantly harder for cybercriminals to track down your personal address, workplace, or financial information through targeted doxxing or social engineering attacks.
Can my screen name be traced back to my real identity?
If you use an anonymous screen name and never post personally identifiable information, it is difficult for everyday users to trace. However, website administrators and law enforcement can still track the underlying IP address and email tied to the account.
