With cybersecurity and cyber crime on a rapid rise in the last few years, its more important than ever to keep information safe and private. Hackers are gaining access to peoples personal and professional lives via their email, phone and especially social media.
As the popular saying goes "whatever you put on the internet will be there permanently" and it's something that I take in to consideration whenever I upload any personal information on the internet. The biggest concern regarding privacy and new media has to deal with social media. People feel the need to post a picture of their private lives without taking into consideration the different people that might be able to see it. Individuals are even inclined to share personal information such as their address and even current location. This can lead to many complications ranging from identity theft to attracting unwanted guests. Just like any other new invention, if not used properly can have damaging consequences.
Another aspect of privacy regarding new media is whats called a cyber footprint where certain websites track your browsing and search history to recommend products for you to purchase. For example, when someone searches for a used car online that individual is most likely to start seeing supplementary products or services such as car insurance, windshield wipers and even new set of tires for sale. Privacy advocates have heavily criticized companies such as Google and Yahoo for engaging in such activities and even see as violation of one's privacy.
As mentioned before, I take real caution when uploading pictures on the internet as I know they will stay there forever. The obvious reason is to protect my privacy but also to protect myself from future employers who might just Google my name when doing a background check. People tend to act different on social media then they do in real life so one needs to be careful with what they say and post and make sure its in line with their professional lives.
Privacy and security is a huge concern when it comes to new media which is why all the the parties involved must work together to combat this issue.
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