Social Networkers Are Concerned About Their Privacy

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In a recent survey by Marist, people aged 60 and over indicated that they are most worried about their privacy via “social networks”. The survey also suggested women are more concerned than men.

In a society when information can be sent almost instantaneously, privacy should be a top priority. As the economy worsens and people become more desperate, your personal information is at “high risk” of being stolen and used for illegal activity and identity theft. Media outlets have exposed areas on popular networking sites such as Facebook and Myspace that have prompted changes in their platform to give users more flexibility and discretion as to what information can be seen by outsiders.

One reason for the heightened awareness is due to the media and news. They have really opened people’s eyes to possible dangers that lurk around utilizing Facebook and other popular social networks. I am not a huge advocate of local media stations as they only seem to report half of the story and love drama more than they do facts. Although in this case it’s something that needed to be addressed to make the internet and your information a little safer.

It’s only typical that older users tend to be less comfortable with their privacy online. The internet and social networking doesn’t come as natural as it does to younger generations who have a more carefree attitude but who also have grown with the technology. It comes down to use of the networks and internet responsibly. Is it really necessary to add your birthday to your profile? If so, why add the year? It’s the small things as users that we must take notice and use common sense. In the end when your identity or financial information is stolen, the social networks aren’t the ones who have to deal with the ramifications, you are!

So continue using the popular networks, just do it responsibly by covering your own butt.