Conversation

I met Mr. Draper when I was a young phone enthusiast and high school student in the mid-late 1970's in NYC. I was in the 8th or 9th grade. 2/
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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/
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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/
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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/
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While I've tried over the years to quietly warn young hackers in his orbit to be careful, I regret that I've not been more public in doing so. 6/
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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/
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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.
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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.
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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