Re: A word of caution.

I , too, recommend being cautious for those with kind hearts who want to help. But I believe it is a little unfair to point fingers so early when so little is known about a poster who may really need help.

Several scenarios come to mind that could explain such a poster's seemingly odd demeanor when asking for such help: (1) The poster is not a native English speaker and so cannot express him or herself clearly. (2) The poster is emotionally unstable and also cannot express him or herself clearly without difficulty. (3) The poster is unsure how to act on such a form and is unfamiliar with our safeguards. (The poster should then read the rules for posting and the safety post.) (4) The poster is desperate or in an extreme situation. In this scenario, I would still exercise caution. (5) The poster is a LEA, vigilante, reporter, or other dishonest individual fishing for off-board contact (albeit, in a very strange way).

Until we have a better idea of what we are dealing with, it is probably best not to chase away a person who may very well need assistance. It is not, however, unreasonable to keep your distance (and suggest that others do the same) from a poster who is acting suspicious. I only suggest you make your words seem less like an insult until you are sure.