Here's the deal when it comes to the internet. Nothing should be trusted and considered "private" or "secret". At one time we have all entered our Social Security Number, address, birth date, sexuality, phone number, political preference, the list is miles long. Remember, the internet is an infinite file cabinet. All that information previously stated existed somewhere in paper form prior to the web, so I ask what is the concern now? The only thing that comes to mind is speed. Privacy does not exist when it comes to the internet. In a matter of seconds I can find "confidential" information about anything or anyone. It doesn't matter what "privacy" settings are activated on your particular social network site, I can still find ways to see you. Activities viewed as "private" are not so, but more assumed. For example, I assume you go to the bathroom, have sex, masturbate, watch pornographic material, and partake in drugs and alcohol. I just choose not to think about it.
"Learning who to trust is actually quite hard."-Boyd It sure is, but there is a simple solution. Don't trust anyone. Family, friends, co-workers, randoms, they can all expose you. You, are the one in control of your online identity. While personal information may accessible by anyone, how you are perceived online can still be saved. Just be smart about your approach. "If you have something that you don't want anyone to know, maybe you shouldn't be doing it in the first place." Keep that thought in the back of your mind next time you are posing in a photo smoking a joint, bonging a beer, snorting blow, or half naked. Using a search engine for "How To Make A Pipe Bomb," is probably not the best idea either. Just be smart. "Privacy," and "secrecy" do not exist when it comes to the internet. They are myths; words created to make you feel better about your guilty pleasures.
I could not agree more with your post! you are so right on everything, and brought up some really good points! Nothing is secret, and it is very easy for us to find out information on others and we are just everyday web browsers. I can't imagine how easy it must be for someone who their job is to search and find the dirt on people. People really do need to think twice before the post pictures of themselves doing things they don't want others to see. Great post!!
ReplyDelete"They are myths; words created to make you feel better about your guilty pleasures. "
ReplyDeleteAMEN!
Out of sight out of mind. That seems to be way to be on the internet.Nice post
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that people should be careful about what they post on social networking sights. But what is your take on sights like online banking,credit card purchases, and email? do you feel privacy settings should be protected there or do you feel that its already not protected?
ReplyDeleteThey should absolutely be protected but unfortunately they are not. People are victims of identity fraud every day. This idea of privacy whether it comes to social networks or online banking is the plot of an arms race. Security settings are set, then later hacked. Then the hacks are fixed, and then infiltrated again. At this point I don't think there is anyway to protect privacy when it comes to online banking or credit cards unless completely avoided. Who is actually gonna do that though? Avoid online banking, bill payment, and shopping? Not me? It's just the risk we all have to take. Pretty much like getting in your car everyday.
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