Privacy is important. Perhaps one doesn't have a real understanding of just how important privacy is until their personal information is broadcasted on the internet, going on to spread like wildfire.
In a lecture with Dr. Gates of Appalachian State University, we discussed just how much privacy we lose in today's society, fueled by social media and advanced technology.
Do you have a Lowe's Foods reward card? How about a Vic card at Harris Teeter? With every purchase you make, that information is tracked and then given to other companies so that they can directly advertise and market your buying habits.
In my last blog post, I brought attention to cyberbullying and the affect it can have on one's mental health. Playing off of that concept, once something is shared online, it's accessible forever and has the incredible ability to very quickly reach all different corners of the world.
Even if your profile is set to "private," on the internet there really is no privacy and no end to how far/how fast things can move.
For example, Dr. Gates brought up the case regarding a girl who made a list ranking her college's male swim team based on who she thought would be best in bed. She emailed it out to a small group of friends, and in the blink of an eye in had gone viral.
The lasting impact the speed and reach of the internet can have on anyone negatively effected has in many cases lead to suicide. With that begin said, be careful what you post and be careful who you share things with on the internet.
As the saying goes, "your personal information online is only as safe as your most irresponsible friend."