Virtual Privacy

Online social networks have transformed the way that we relate, organize, and create meaning in our global society.  People and communities that have never interacted now routinely have the ability to learn collectively and interact in a virtual shared space. Cloud computing, ecommerce, smart phones, and virtual social graphs provide the foundation for the tremendous benefits of this global connectivity, but also present a shared vulnerability and provide others with,” the power to damage (Johnson et al 2011, p. 2)”.

In a survey of Facebook users, 91% of participants were unaware of the terms of service and even when made aware of the privacy options and terms of service, few users changed their privacy standards (Hull et al 2010). The definition of the term friend seems to be the crux of the issue as the watered down interpretation of friend – someone that you may know or that of a friend of a friend is provided access to your network.  A friend in an off-line setting most often is afforded privileges once trust and intention are ascertained, but on-line, all friends are created and treated equally. Is your personal information safe?  What about the safety of youth on Facebook? Who is responsible for privacy standards - the industry or the individual? Join Tony,Jen, and Melissa's discussion about privacy and trust on social networking sites.

Join Jen, Tony, and Melissa's discussion about privacy on Facebook.