Panther Forum Activity Week 9

Things to remember when you are using social media to communicate with others.

Did you know that things you post on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc., can have negative effects on job opportunities, future prospects, and your security? Many colleges and approximately 60%-80% of employers investigate an applicant’s social networking profiles before granting acceptance or interviews. Many individuals don’t think about the negative consequences some posts may have months or years down the road or how posts could pose a potential threat to your safety and security. Did You Know???

 Post Illegal Activities Even if your profile is set to private, a friend can always download and save incriminating photos that he or the authorities can use against you in the future.  Post Confidential Information Think about how easy it is to share content on Facebook; if a single person shared that photo to his public profile, that sensitive information would be accessible by anyone, no hacking required. Identity stolen — just like that. Things You Should Not Do!

 Post Your location It is usually wise not to share information as to where you are, especially if you are alone, or if you have left home by yourself. You can open yourself up to predators or stalkers who may decide to follow you. If you inform your viewers that no one else is at home that could also create attention for potential burglars.  Threaten Violence Threatening a person or group of people in any situation is very serious. Even posting an anonymous, empty threat to an obscure online forum full of strangers will raise red flags. As soon as authorities locate a threat, they have the right to investigate — and they will. Continued...

 Cyber bullying When a student turns to social media, blogs or virtually any online space as a forum for hurtful speech, there can be countless consequences. Not only does that student face expulsion, but also serious criminal prosecution.  Post Emotionally Always stop and take a moment to imagine how your social media posts affect the feelings, safety and well-being of those around you — even your worst enemies.  Post Objectionable Content From School Computers or Networks Profanity, harassment, and using inappropriate language directed towards staff or students is a bad idea. Remember, your school site can access your computer. Continued...

N EVER A SSUME P RIVACY S ETTINGS A RE 100% S ECURE Although most major social networks update you with privacy improvements, the changes are often too frequent to follow and can get complicated. Even if you are diligent to protect your social media identity, it's best to assume anything you post is fair game — potentially seen by your school, by your parents and by strangers. Just remember if you don’t want “everyone” to see it then... don’t post it at all ! Use Good Judgment!

Remember... You should use social media with caution and wisdom ! Using social media inappropriately could potentially cost you:  a job opportunity  a friendship  your safety and well being ALWAYS CONSIDER THE LONG TERM CONSEQUENCES OF POSTING SOMETHING BEFORE YOU POST IT! To Sum It All Up!

Video Clip - Think before you post Video Clip