virtual identity

A virtual identity is a persona used to interact with others on the internet. Because it is not associated with the user's physical body, the persona is infinitely malleable. In the physical world, an individual's identity is determined by visual, aural and textual cues that are given to the community to establish reputation. The elements, such as who, what, where and when, of an individual's life that traditionally establish identity in the physical world can be fabricated in the virtual world.

Types:

Among the several types of virtual identities are email, Twitter and Facebook accounts, user logins with passwords and avatars in virtual worlds. A virtual identity can reveal an individual's real identity. In Usenet newsgroups, visitors solicit information via bulletin boards. The credibility of the advice giver is at stake. The cost of misinformation to the user seeking information can be steep, according to the Sociable Media Group at the MIT Media Lab. In these environments, self-appointed advisers often use their real names and professional titles. In contrast, people use fabricated virtual identities, such as avatars, to participate in virtual worlds and online role-playing games.