Google Misses Opportunity to Add Pseudonyms to Google+

In 2011, Google came under fire for requiring users of its new Google+ service to use their real names, rather than pseudonyms, as identifiers on the service. Critics expressed concern about the loss of online pseudonyms and the especially problematic consequences for people in vulnerable positions. Many users also complained about frequent and unpredictable account deactivation based on the real name policy. Google’s initial response, “use your name or don’t use the service,” was viewed as a lost opportunity to distinguish itself from Facebook. However, continuing pressure ultimately convinced the company to backtrack and promise to allow pseudonyms.