Why is my full real name showing up when I sent an IM?

I do not want my last name to appear in IM. How do I get rid of my last name showing on any part of IM'ing?

• In other words, I am trying to protect my privacy in IM'ing. I only want my first name to appear anywhere in the Yahoo Messenger format.

• Answer:

  You typed your real name somewhere. Your friend has the option to have you listed in his/her IM by your ID or by your "name". You really should change that so your real name does not show (even if you have to get a new ID) - you are 100% right in wanting to protect your privacy. Try these 2 things to see if they help you: A) In the IM program: 1- click on MESSENGER 2- click on MY CONTACT DETAILS and delete your real name if it's typed in there. Check or the tabs and make sure none of your real info is there at all. and B) In the IM program: 1- click on MESSENGER 2- click on MY ACCOUNT INFO Your browser will open. You will see your "Yahoo! ID card". Check to see if your real name is there anywhere and if it is, click on EDIT on the correspondent section. Then look on the right... that "Public Information" column. Check your PROFILES, check your LISTING. check your Yahoo EMAIL account. Check everything you can! Good Luck! But remember... if you have to, get a new ID, but do not keep showing your real name! It's not just the people on your friends list who can see your name. Test your changes with someone you know AND who used to see your real name. Make sure you AND your trusted friend have this setting: Messenger, Preferences, Appearance, round button "For each Contact on the messenger list, show their.......... Nickname or First and Last Name". .