Beware of This New York Times Email Prompt: Think Twice Before Sharing Your Email Address

In a recent screenshot circulating on Reddit, users have been buzzing about a particular image from The New York Times that seems to be a test of digital p****nce. The image features a prominent headline in the "TECH FIX" section that reads: "Everyone Wants Your Email Address. Think Twice Before Sharing It." Below this, the prompt asks readers to either create a free account or log in to continue reading, specifically requesting an email address.

Reddit users had a lot to say about this. One user humorously pointed out, "This is why you have a trash garbage email, then another official one," emphasizing the need for multiple email addresses to manage spam. Another user commented on the convenience of using iCloud-generated email addresses, saying, "Having the iCloud generated email addresses (fwd to primary) has been amazing. I use those for every new signup and can easily disable any one address as needed."

Some users were particularly wary of giving their email to The New York Times. "NYT is probably like among the worst ones to give your email to," one user noted, reflecting a common sentiment of caution. Another user criticized the prompt as a "Horrible sales pitch," while someone else humorously suggested, "The correct dialogue box should've been Think about it twice and now enter the email address."

The conversation took a more serious turn when a user shared their frustration with security laxity in emails from financial institutions, "You think that's bad... the security guy in my absolutely *screams* and dies inside a little bit every time my fricking *bank* sends you an email with a button with a complicated URL that you're supposed to push in order to access your financial information."

For those looking for practical advice, some users recommended using temporary or disposable email addresses. "Pop a self-destructing ten minute email address in and you're good to go," one user advised. Another user shared a more unconventional approach, "I have access to a lot of different state employee email addresses, so I usually just use those. Some dude up in, like, Butte County, California is getting mail from something he has never heard of before."

In summary, while The New York Times' prompt to enter an email address might seem straightforward, it has sparked a broader conversation about digital security and the importance of email management. As one user aptly put it, "It's a test," and navigating this digital landscape requires a blend of caution, creativity, and a bit of humor.