Safety on social networks.
Be cool and not a fool!
There are three types of people.
The Sheep- They are scared of their own shadow. They heard together in large numbers knowing that if one or two are picked off, that one or two probably won't be them. They also do not act very bright, and often need to be protected.
The Wolf- This is a predator who doesn't care what it has to do to prey on the weak. It wants what it wants!
And there is the misunderstood predator.
The Sheep Dog- Whether they are good at it or not, they are here to prey on the predators!
Which one are you?
Get it?
Have fun without opening yourself up!
What are social networks?
Any online community that lets you create your own profile. The most popular ones are Facebook, MySpace, MyYearbook, and Twitter. They are countless others! In a future hub, I will rate them all.
Why do people join social networks?
People join to flirt, make friends, share interests, learn info. from new people, make business contacts etc. Well, that's why most do it. Others join to scam people, defame the character of those they despise, cheat on their spouses, and stalk the vulnerable for sex or just to bully someone.
I join to reconnect with old school mates, make new friends that I share some interests with (Spirituality,history, natural healing, politics, fishing, etc.), and to learn from people in the know.So, no I do not like it when I get dirty pictures sent to me, and when I see someone being slandered or bullied. I do not like it on Hubpages either. I am not speaking up to start trouble, but rather to see it stop. Disputes should be handled one on one, in a court of law, by the police, or other means not on the internet. Immaturity and mean spirited attacks are never acceptable! Though 99% of the world knows better than to attack me and try to bully me around, I still get upset and speak up when it is done to another.
How to protect yourself and your loved ones:
Rule Number One: Do not put your cell phone number, email address,Date of birth (D.O.B.) or any contact information on your profile. We Americans are often smart people who do dumb things! The scam artists know what to do with your email address and D.O.B. , and they look for unsuspecting people. Be wiser than they are! Do not open the door for unwanted intrusion.
Next, if you are in a conflict with anyone, do not talk about it online. Why open yourself up to a lawsuit.Do not insult or share "dirt" about an employer, former friend, family member, or anyone else! Do not insult your boss or a customer either. i see that often, and it is not smart! Libel is a serious issue and can get you in legal trouble, yes on the internet.
If someone is bullying, or threatening you, do not be Dirty Harry and make their day. Mouthing back will most likely make matters worse! Save their info. and threatening statements and then, report and block the person. Stop the harassment right away and move on. Be the grown up, and walk away.
Last, if you are lonely or single, be careful who "steals" your heart online. Do not meet strangers or share info. with them. No, you do not know someone until you know someone. If you are not single do not pretend to be. You are asking for trouble if you do.Also, be careful what photos you post.
A side note: Unless you want to get spammed, do not click on the pop ups like this is how you will look when you are 90, or what would a cat look like if it blew up over your garden. Some of those are traps.
Children on line:
If you are a parent, then be one! Do not just let your child get on any network unsupervised! Yes they will get mad at you for saying no, or not letting them have their own account. The fact is, that there is no need for them to be unsupervised online. The internet is filled with clever and deceptive people, and besides, there are better things for youngsters to do! If they want to hear about a concert or what new album is coming out, or whatever, then get on you tube with them. Do not let them get exposed to porn, solicitation, or anything dangerous on line. You are their guardian, remember that!
Be a good Samaritan:
If you see slanderous statements on a friends wall, help stop it. Report the person doing it and ask your friends to do the same.
