I always wonder why 'newbies' to the Internet are sometimes targets for rudeness, personal attacks, screen-name hijacking, and even people sending them computer viruses? Why? Initiation? Because they offend other internet users? Lack of netiquette?

I try to be polite to most people on the Net. And yes I got the newbie treatment. It taught me what I can and what I can't say or do on the Net. But sometimes it's downright nasty. I try never to bash newbies, because of the way I was treated.
???

What makes you think newbies are 'targeted'?  How can anyone know who the newbies are anyway?  Of course, the less you know, the more vulnerable you are, but that doesn't mean they are 'targeted'.  Besides, I know a lot of people who have been on the net for a LONG time, and they are STILL naive.  ???

Same principle as picking on the new kid in school who doesn't know his way around.  There are a lot of school-age kids on the internet, and a lot of adults in the world who never grow up!
>:(

way old song "It's  A Sign of the TImes" Petula Clark

:)

Someone started a thread asking if people were less kind now-a-days and it seems being rude to people not as bright as one is the rule...."you're the missing link" mentality...or simple snobbery or as my fellow spy noted, simply good-natured ribbing.

I have learned lots from Veteran 'net users; when I've gotten negative feedback for being a dumb arse, I replied explaining being a newbie and usually got good feedback.