Although social networking websites are growing and gaining in popularity, posting something online today, may cause problems in the future. Think before posting online.
With hundreds of social networking websites online today, their popularity is growing. Although they provide obvious benefits, there are also concerns associated with such sites that parents and adults need to know. Studies suggest, the majority of children say or do things online they would not want their parents or other adults to see, especially when it comes to social networking sites.
Provocative photographs, pictures that depict drug and alcohol use, and sexy or explicit photos and videos, are being published online in increasing numbers. Besides providing far too much personal information online for friends, this type of information may in fact place children at risk for predators and pedophiles or those who may have ulterior motives. Many children as well as adults say or do things online they would not do or say in “real life”.
Some statistics suggest a high percentage of employers now include social networking sites in their background checks, resulting in “qualified” employees not being considered for hire. According to a recent Job Outlook 2007 Fall Preview survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 11% of respondents reported they plan on reviewing social networking profiles when considering job candidates. More than 60% said the information they obtained online, has some effect on their decisions when hiring.
Although it may be fun to post that picture from a concert or party, the consequences of that photograph may be far reaching. A case in the news recently is that of a young college woman, who was denied her teaching certificate just prior to graduation last year. A photograph published on MySpace, showed her allegedly drinking from a plastic cup (although you can not see what was in the cup) while wearing a silly hat at a Halloween party. She was denied a teaching degree but instead was given a degree in English. As she is unable to teach without that specific degree, she recently filed a Federal lawsuit against the University for damages. This particular case involved a woman of legal age, not a child or teenager, nor was the published picture “indecent”, sexually explicit or provocative in any way. Due to that one picture being published on a social networking site, her career and life has forever changed.
Once something is published or posted online, don’t assume it can be deleted. Although the original post may be removed, it is important to note that the image, video, or posting may be stored elsewhere on someone else’s computer or server, it may have been printed out, or it may have been forwarded through email to others.
Think twice before posting something online. What is posted online today, may cause issues or problems in the future.
For more information on Internet Safety, read:
MySpace and AG's Unite for Kids
