I like to fancy myself a rather private person. On Facebook, I am careful to add only people that I interact with in the “real world”, I try not to make posts about personal drama but rather just general thoughts, I censor myself. As Lauren Gelman of the Boston College Law Review points out, technology creates an illusion of privacy and control that users often fall victim to. We often believe that only our “friends” and intended audiences can view the information that we display online.
In reality, a “blurry edge” exits. Meaning that we cannot be sure who is viewing our material. While I have only “friended” classmates, family, co-workers and friends, they are not the only people or entities that have access to my information. It would be naive to assume that corporations, like Facebook, are not exploiting that. By agreeing to their terms and conditions, all images and thoughts and comments shared through Facebook become their property to use in ANY WAY THEY WANT.
I would be flattered if Facebook decided to re-tell or sell a joke that I make, but in reality they are interested in data about me. My age, gender, location and interested are all packaged and sold so that advertisements can be directed my way. I am not fiscally compensated for it, but instead rewarded with a free social networking service and the convenience of having the advertisements for services and goods brought to me.
Another startling faucet of social media is that it can be used by employers to keep tabs on employees (pun intended). While it is illegal for an employer to discriminate based on race, creed, orientation or gender, the reality is that they have the ability to view this information about you. It would be unethical for them to look at this protected information and then decide based on any of these not to hire you. Unfortunately, it would be very hard for the rejected candidate to prove that an employer was discriminatory.
However, there are few laws surrounding an employer dismissing employees over activities depicted on Facebook. Many argue that they should be allowed to use their free time as they please and that it is un-related to work. Situations become convoluted, however when there is evidence posted online of misconduct.
The good news is that Social media can also be useful in job hunting!
If you need some tips about appearing professional online, read this! —>Make A Smart Career Choice And Don’t Be An Idiot On Social Media (nyulocal.com)
Social (media) Butterfly 