a lot of the ladies got threatening emails from some idiot claiming he would out all the big TER people, the he/she had the funds to do so. He posted private info on another board.

I say, paranoia begins when we listen to the ranting silliness of people like that. I know they can possibly make good on their threats, but only if WE leave the back door open. Play safe, do your homework, cross your "t's" and dot your "i's." Don't see ladies who don't require screening and/or references.

It may seem like the thing to do at the moment, but if she is not thinking further ahead than the next dollar in her fist, forget about it. I am not implying your ATF was not safe, but everything we can do to increase  your safety will help.