Today I found a remarkable news-item on CNN.com. The editors of a new online datingsite found an exceptional approach to increase the number of members: steal information from the profiles on Facebook. However, according to the creaters of the datingsite, the purpose was to show the lack of security on the social network Facebook.
This topic triggers me to think about all the people who are still questioning the security of online social networks. I assume that everyone knows someone in his or her environment who is very sceptic about the safety of those social networks.
However, from my point of view it all depends on what you post online.
The internet is open, always, and everywhere, so I do not think that posts/pictures/information will be safe. Nevertheless, many users of social networks does not realize this. Consequently, when a message or a photo shows up on a totally different website, people are dismayed. But why? If you do not want everyone to see your posts; just do not post them!
Of course, websites spend many time to improve their security, but because of the nature of the internet, it is hard to realize this.
Obviously, users trust online social networks like Facebook and Twitter, but I think it is important to realize the risks and the inventiveness of hackers and other online criminals.
In addition, many companies have become aware of the possibility to find information about applicants online. A study from careerbuilder.com shows that Facebook is the most frequently used website to search for information about (potential) employees. Likewise, a specific website in the Netherlands offers businesses a quick search engine to find information about their employees: wieowie.nl
However, how do you know what message and what photograph is inappropriate for you boss? What about a picture of you in a funny costume on a party? Or a negative message about your annoying colleague? In my opinion you should ask yourself whether photographs and messages are relevant. Furthermore, it might be wise to control your privacy settings on online profiles. After all, the first impression (offline as well as online) is the most important one.
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