As far as creepy, eh, take it or leave it.
Sometimes it is handy if I am trying to help somebody, I can take a quick look and see if they are reading my reply .. if so I'll stay on a few extra minutes to see if I can help more, but if not, I may take a break.
Same with when I report a problem; it's nice to see if someone is looking at it and may offer a solution soon

It's handy, and who cares which thread you may be looking at on a given moment.
I kinda like it, but that said, I have it turned off .. I think that was from the old 'Ivan' days, hopefully not many remember that time frame.
Trolls made me do it, but that seems to have improved a bit lately.

Make your sound your own!
.. I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome