Today's Computer Technology ~ Good or Evil

Technology as far as the computer is becoming the way of the world. We are no longer utilizing the US Postal Service to send Hallmark cards to wish someone a happy birthday or sending handwritten invitations for a baby showers, etc. Evites are now the way to go. Almost everything and anything can be done online. We are banking online, paying bills and shopping online. Most, if not all of our everyday communication is done online via email or text message.

We now use GPS tracking devices to get around when we are lost or are in need of directions; maps are now obsolete. Newspapers and magazines have websites that you can join to read about the latest fashions and events in your neighborhood, thus making newspapers and magazines obsolete. You can now attend college and get your degree without ever leaving the comforts of your home.

Computer technology is a good thing. However, there are evil people spending their time thinking of ways to compromise your security by hacking into your computer.

Then there's social networking. Social networking can be a positive thing if you use it wisely. It can be a brilliant way to link to family members, classmates and long lost childhood friends. It can also be a positive tool to promote a business or a planned event opened to the public.

I try to understand why people post their personal business for the world to see on a social networking site. If you are not discrete with your postings you are asking for trouble and setting yourself up.

Potential employers are looking for you on Facebook. I read an article about a woman losing her health benefits because she posted family pictures of having a good time while on vacation. Facebook postings have been used by private investigators in finding cheating spouses. I recently read another posting that a collection agency was using Facebook to contact individuals to collect debts. People's homes have been robbed because of postings on Twitter announcing vacation plans, alerting the world that their house is vacant.

Unfortunately, there are child predator's online waiting to pounce on a child. There are bully's online posting negative remarks causing others to take their lives.

First and foremost, monitor your child's online activities. Teach them about communicating with strangers online, it's no different than talking to a stranger in a mall.

Become computer savvy; be careful who you accept as your friend or follower on social networking sites. Be considerate of those on your email list. When sending a broadcast email, or sending an email to several people at one time, use the bcc option so that your address book does not become public to everyone.

We can't be too careful in the world of technology. Nothing is 100% secure or private when it comes to using a computer or becoming a member of social networking sites. On the other hand, remember to use common sense when it comes to posting your personal information online.