Well, JJ, the web is full of evil fucktards just like this hobby has been since the start of time. That said, there are a lot of good folks out here too and sites like Slixa run by fucktards will mostly not succeed and go away if they are not run for the benefit of their communities. Don't worry about it too much and no, we are not all totally F@#%$^ed.
The site is really slick and pretty, but it's usability is no better and probably less than eccie, which isn't great. That too will doom it. LovelyLil has some good points as well. This is a complex topic and has many facets as relate to the hobby as well as just for people who use the web and e-mail for their personal lives, much less their business. On top of that we now have smart phones, pads, etc.. and while similar, each have their own little twists and dangers. Then you add in more potential danger with flakes and criminals (yes, technically we are all criminals, but I"m talking about those who seek to defraud, blackmail, enslave or hurt others not engage in technically illegal but mutually consenting adult activities) around the hobby and it may at times seem hopeless. Hang in there and educate yourself, there are lots of good resources on the Web and on this board.
BTW, in that vein, I'll be willing to barter an hour of security, tech and business consulting (maybe more, how good a negotiator are you?) for an hour of companionship evenings and weekends. I'll be happy to host and provide the drinks. PM me and I'll provide refs and provide my credentials and resume (I"m single and though UTR have no one to deceive since what I do on my own time is my business). I'll explain anything you want explained, answer all your questions and even help you with security and anything else tech or business. After that you can call or PM me with questions any time you need within reason. If this works I'm on my way to being the man whore I always dreamed of LOL!