Something to keep in mind, but not get too worked-up about. Personally, it hadn’t occurred to me but that’s probably because I probably wouldn’t say libelous things about someone while using their full name in print; that’s just asking for trouble.
Bloggers Warned They Can Be Sued for Libel
Libel law, as it applies to this new Internet form of journalism, is still being worked out in the courts. But bloggers and those who post comments on chat boards should be aware that in most cases, the same libel and privacy laws that govern the conduct of professional journalists also apply to them.