On the one hand, it is a wonderful medium in conveying ideas, building lasting relationships, sharing information, periodically keeping in touch with acquaintances, and so on.
On the other hand, from my perspective anyway, one must always be cautious of cyber predators, friendships that may go sour, cyber bullies, employers accessing information about you, and so on.
I guess it's just the world we live in, with "pros" there are always "cons". Not to sound as though I'm paranoid or overly cautious, but with so many reports of shady Internet practices, I think I've developed a healthy guarded approach towards new technologies in general.
To help those like me [guarded], as you might imagine, there are numerous resources available to protect one's privacy, and address other concerns one may have. Below are just a few useful links I came across:
Social Networking Sites: A Parent’s Guide
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/tech/tec13.shtm
Social Networking Sites: Safety Tips for Tweens and Teens
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/tech/tec14.shtm
Prevent Cyber Bullying
http://www.cyberbully411.org/who-is-targeted-by-cyberbullies.php
Social Networking in Plain English
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a_KF7TYKVc
I've sort of developed my own quasi "set of guidelines" to follow:
1.] Keep personal information to a minimum
2.] Know your audience/"friends"
3.] Avoid religious and political topics
4.] Any memberships or affiliations listed should be professional in nature
Wait a minute, looking back on my quasi "set of guidelines", maybe I am just a little paranoid! As I begin to become more comfortable with "Social Networking", I'm certain my paranoia will cease.
Ron, I absolutely agree with you and I like your own "set of guidelines". I would not say you are paranoid. I do believe you are right on the money with being cautious. I enjoyed the sites you posted on this blog! Great post!
ReplyDeleteDonna,
ReplyDeleteA very sincere thank you for understanding my reservations and cautiousness towards "social networking". It would be great if one could fully delve into new technologies with "eyes wide open", but that would not be wise.
My overall point is, which you got, is to venture out there, but tread lightly [adhere to guidelines].
Great comment!
Ron you are definitely not paranoid. Your guidelines are very good. I feel the same way. I maybe one of the only people remaining out there without a facebook or myspace page. I hear to many horror stories out there and don't want to leave myself exposed out there. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with being cautious. In order to make the decisions that are best for you, you must educate yourself to the possible pros and cons of these websites. Unfortunately, there have been too many horror stories, Mike. It happens [with just about anything these days]. In the end, however you decide {for or against it}, let it be what's best for you.
ReplyDeleteDo tread lightly, but be aware of the possibilities. Thanks, Ron, for the resources!
you've made me feel guilty as a parent for not thinking this through as clearly as you have! I need to be more aware of what my own kids are doing on line and what they have set up. Sometimes i fell like I'm policing them, but i guess someone has to be doing it!! and that someone is me! Great Job on the informal set of rules. enjoyed your blog as usual!
ReplyDelete