I remember when Myspace was first starting to become popular. I was probably in middle school, and everyone was sharing links and creating profiles with pictures, lame surveys, and obnoxious backgrounds. I joined the bandwagon and made my own, and when Facebook came around, I signed up for that too. I never posted anything embarrassing or inappropriate, and I'm wary of old photos or messages coming back to haunt me when I'm looking for a job. However, I've seen way too many people haphazardly share personal information that I'm sure they'll regret. And if they don't, then I'm a little worried for their dignity...
Social networking sites allow people to create a virtual identity without asking for verification that you're posting the truth. You can lie about your age, your hobbies, your music interests, and even upload photos of someone else and pretend they're you. Your bio box can be filled with qualities you only hope to someday become, or may contain lyrics to a song you feel embodies your true self. The internet has become a vessel for anonymous users to manipulate and utilize for whatever purpose they desire. There is no such thing as personal space when what you share on the web can never be taken back and everyone can view your personal information.
It's actually pretty scary to think about, but I'm not about to delete my Facebook just because some people over share or secretly/excessively stalk their friends online. I recognize that the internet is a wide, open space that could be used for dangerous things, but for now I'll stick to sharing my photography and saying hi to old friends with ease.
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