| Understanding the far-reaching implications of the Internet is of vital importance for the end user. The ubiquitous nature of the Internet through both wireless and physical access, from a variety of business, government, and personal electronic devices offers global connectivity and shared information, the likes of which mankind has not seen before. The benefits of real time information sharing through computer systems, mobile devices, and enterprise level appliances not only offer an incredible amount of convenience but also a pathway for unwanted attention.;Social networking sites rely on connections and communication, encouraging the end user to provide personal information. Whether these interactions establish friendships, romantic relationships, or business connections, deciding how much information to reveal in creating a social networking profile may not rest with the end user. The desire to create a virtual profile, share achievements, and every other aspect of our lives has caused a virtual stage where we act not for ourselves but for the appetite of the audience. Placating to the masses will lead to an addiction devoid from reality and with far reaching consequences. Good social networking hygiene and cognizance of posted information addresses the information posted and the methodology behind the posting. Realizing that the more time that is spent polishing our virtual image, our real identity becomes split between who we are and what we want people to see. Keywords: Cybersecurity, social media, Hawthorne effect, malware, virus, social media policy, Professor Cynthia Gonnella. |
