In today’s world, it’s hard to go a day without reading something about social networking sites. Recently, it was Congressman Anthony Weiner’s scandal, when he used the social networking site Twitter to send scantily clad photos of himself to several people. What is probably most troubling is that this isn’t a rare occurrence in our great country. We also occasionally hear about online scams or predators finding people using mediums such as Facebook and Twitter. I think that we are all at fault for tolerating such behavior that allowed these types of things to happen.
Now, I am not saying that there is anything wrong with social networking; on the contrary, there is a time and a place for everything. Social networking can be used to one’s advantage. It can connect you with people whom you might’ve lost or forgotten, such as old classmates or co-workers. It can also allow people to communicate when they are separated, with programs like Skype. However, as we see time and time again, it is all too easy to fall victim to this technology. Computer screens are a lot less personal than people.
Personally I do not have Facebook, but I do use other peoples’ to check and see what is going on in their lives. I tend to notice that even the quiet people can get loud and mean online. Most of us have heard of “Facebook fights.” One person will say something; the other will get upset; and they will essentially argue over Facebook. Is this really necessary? Why do people type what they wouldn’t say in person?
Let’s also remember that Facebook changes their privacy policies so often anyone in the world may be able to see what you just posted, including future employers. It is also more common for employers, or potential employers, to search their employees online. The management at the little bike shop where I work searched me before hiring me. A general rule of thumb is to never say anything over the Internet you wouldn’t want a total stranger to read.
Earlier last week I sat down with a sergeant and detective from the Saco Police Department to discuss Internet safety. They mentioned a few scams that are going around websites, like eBay and Craigslist, that appear legitimate at first. Most of these scams involve people from overseas trying to get Americans to send them money via services like Western Union.
The detective also spoke a little bit about identity fraud. He said that now in public Wi-Fi areas, other people can get into your computer and view what you are doing and even hack into your system with little to no difficulty. This means that while you are paying your bills online and feeling all modern, people might be stealing your identity. Threats like this are all around us and are hiding around every corner. You’re safer walking New York City streets at midnight then you are surfing the Web.
The Saco Police Department and I have a few tips that can help you stay safe online: Keep information that may allow people to find you off the Internet if you can. This information includes pictures of your place of work/school, pictures of your house, phone numbers, and first and last names. All of these things can tell someone where you live or tell them your daily routine.
The only safe computer is one that is not connected to the Internet, so back up all of your valuable files or media on a computer not connected to the Internet. Never post anything that you wouldn’t say in person. Only communicate with people you know in depth, avoiding potentially hostile online situations. And remember, at least in theory, we all have common sense, so use it.
— Timothy Morris is a student at Thornton Academy who is active with Thornton Academy television station and will be writing this column for the Journal Tribune through the summer.
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