I always go by a handle.  The only place I have ever put my real name is on my personal website in the fine copyright print at the bottom to protect my writing.  I also specifically use my maiden name because it is extremely common (whereas my married name is uncommon enough that we're the only ones in the phonebook).

While most people out there are decent, mature human beings, it never hurts to be careful.

lady-morana.deviantart.com