Cyber Oversharing

Social networking sites have become a new form of communication aside from postal mail and telephone calls. The websites allow users to have their own profiles displaying their photos and other information about themselves such as marital status, and hobbies etc. Social network websites have their advantages such as finding jobs, finding family members and old friends, communicating through speedy instant messages and much more. The cons of social networking are invasion of privacy, and easier identity theft. Being aware of what to avoid when posting can make a safer cyber environment.

An example of over sharing information is posting your home or job address, birthday, cellphone. Those pieces of personal contact information can make someone easy to stalk. Another dangerous example of over sharing can affect your family. Younger children should never be named on social websites, doing so can make them a target, especially for predators. Sharing the least information is important when using social websites. People should also make sure they don't photograph themselves outside their house, or any other identifiable places such as school or work.

People tend to post information about where they are going, or they check in at the location they are at. Doing either is a big mistake. Not "friend" on one's profile is a very close contact.It's understandable why people post info like this. They are excited about how much fun they are having. But for the sake of safety, it's important to post after the event is over. People should enjoy their time out, and post about it later.

Just like in the movies, someone plans a small get together. The event ends up turning into a big police raid.
Word gets out easily, especially when the event address is on the persons profile. People might not R.S.V.P, it can turn out to be a disaster. When posting about an event exclude the address. Only those whose intentions are to attend can be provided with the info. No one likes to see party crashers they don't even know.

These tips are very limited, but I feel like they are the least acknowledged. Posting info can be a fun way to allow others to get to know you. But one should opt for a more authentic way, perhaps actually meeting in person or talking through the phone. Doing either can be considered old fashioned, but worth it.