Important, and long overdue, article about missing stair John Draper ("Captain Crunch") and hacker conferences.
I have a personal perspective here, which I'll share later.
For the last ~40 or so years, every time I see Draper's name lauded in print or on the net it brings back some disturbing memories. Fortunately, my story is not as bad as it could have been, but I regret not telling it more publicly sooner. 1/
He was at first generous in sharing his knowledge of phones and so on, which was what I was interested in. But he eventually became aggressive in inviting me to share what he said were "exercises". This put me off and creeped me out sufficiently that I dropped contact with him.3/
Unfortunately, that escalated into what became a rather disturbing and occasionally frightening series of stalking episodes. There was an obvious (and amateurish) tap on my family's phone line placed in the basement of our apt building. 4/
But the scary part was when he showed up (without my consent or knowledge) at my school and claimed to be a relative to take me out of school; the school had the good sense to call my parents. It brought home a sense of being under siege. I was 14 or 15. 5/
The term "missing stair", which I first heard a few years ago, resonates with me quite strongly because of this experience. It's too easy for predators in our community to find newcomers to prey on. 7/
Thanks, by the way, everyone reaching out. I appreciate it, but I'm fine. This was ~40 years ago, and through a combination of luck, the people around me, and my instincts, I avoided being physically assaulted.
This experience didn't define me, but I hope it helps others.
FTR, I hold no particular ill will toward the man. He didn't ultimately do me serious harm. But I fear others may not have been so lucky.
I understand he has a book coming out. Maybe it's interesting, and you should get it if you want. I don't think I'll be reading it myself.
Hi Matt- unfortunately sharing this violation brings up a fear for our safety or that our lives will be robbed of success/ good reputation.Instead predators rob victims of self worth &dignity which affects all relationships. Telling your story liberates/heals you. #newbeginnings