Today everyone’s life seems to be ruled by Facebook. Very rarely will you find someone who is not on this site. Other than Facebook addiction, there are many dangers of Facebook, some of which are really serious. Some dangers would affect only a certain group while the others apply to everyone. Here are some facts that you need to know if you are using Facebook or considering to join:
Facebook thrives on your personal information - The prime attraction of the site is the personal updates of its users; some being very sensitive information as well. If you don’t take care of your privacy settings, this information can end up on popular search engines like Google. Common details like your birthday, the school you attended, where you work and what you ate for lunch can be a breach on your privacy.
Facebook is an Internet stalker’s dream - Keep to your privacy. If you don’t want to share your personal information with people, don’t accept them as your friend. They can have access to your photo albums and check out your personal life, check your birthday and with whom you have a relationship etc. These are opportunities for them to study your lifestyle. Not too long ago, this was shared only among your closest friend – now it can be accessed by anyone.
Facebook is a for-profit company - Do you believe that their pure intention was to help everyone stay connected? Then, you would want to believe Google’s claim to make information available for everyone. These are profit earning companies. They have a number of methods of earning. Facebook earns millions of dollars monthly through advertisements which require information: information that you and other users are providing for free.
Facebook can mess things up with your job - Have you given something like this any thought? Your boss happens to see your status update and pictures of a particular day, and this contradicts the reason you gave him for your absence from work. What would be the result? You are in trouble or at least will have to face some difficulties with your boss. Also if you feel you are having some difficulties in your recent job search, check out your privacy settings, as some employers do a search on Facebook before hiring an employee. If they see an awkward picture of you, then you can be sure not to have a second interview. May be your only chance will be if the employer actually preferred the pictures.
These are only some of the dangers of Facebook that you may face when using such a network. So, take care of your privacy, and watch out. You may face unexpected situations.
