Social networking sites are becoming exceptionally popular to allow people to find old friends, family members, new friends, and keep in touch in a convenient way. Two of the most well-known social networking sites include Facebook and MySpace. They allow you to post up-to-date information, and to show your latest pictures of events, friend groups, trips, and anything else you find interesting. The purpose of these sites is generally simply social and allow for communication and connections to be made.
However, with all of this personal information and media all in one profile, it does put you at risk in the case of an ill-intended individual. Therefore, as much as it is tempting to post all of the information you can think of into your social networking site profile, it is wise to limit yourself.
After all, social networking sites depend upon social connections and communication, and they therefore naturally involve a certain disclosure of information. However, as you decide which information about yourself you will be revealing, you should remember that you must be cautious as:
• The internet may make you feel anonymous, however, anonymity is far from assured by its digital nature. Just because you can’t see the other individuals, it doesn’t mean that they are not there.
• As there is no actual physical, “real life” interaction among people online, a false sense of security is constructed.
• It is easy to forget that while the targeted audience of the information on social networking websites is friends and family, it can be accessed by others as well.
• It is easy to offer opinions, insights, and inner thoughts in order to share with or impress friends, opening personal beliefs to anybody who is watching.
There are certain things that you can do in order to use social networking sites and remain safe at the same time. These include:
• Limit the quantity of personal information that you post on your profile. This is especially true about your name and contact information.
• Always remember that anything you post can be seen by anyone at all. Never post financial information, passwords, or anything that can lead someone to your door.
• Be very wary of strangers online – even the ones who sound friendly.
• Always be skeptical. The more appealing, the more you should be suspicious.
• Actually read the privacy policies of the website. Know where you stand and what you’re signing onto.