Watch what you post on the Net these days

I thought this would be good for sharing. It's a reader's letter from The Star..


I REFER to “Obama warns teenagers” (The Star, Sept 10) in which the US leader warned of the perils of “putting too much personal information on Internet social networking sites”.

It’s not only because these could “come back to haunt” them later, but they also provide an insight into one’s lifestyle.

Our leaders have also reminded us repeatedly of this, emphasising that even putting up one’s mobile phone number or a seemingly harmless picture could be risky.

Not too long ago, it was reported that a contestant in a reality-TV programme had her picture posted on Facebook, showing her in a sexy outfit engaging in risque behaviour with a female friend.

When exposed, she pleaded for a second chance and begged the public not to judge her based on that picture. She claimed that it was taken when she was young - only two years actually, as she is now 21 years old.

It doesn’t make a difference how old or young one is, as it is a fact that a lot of people now use the Internet to gain access to, and find out more about, someone.

Taking pictures during a girls’ night out, or at a karaoke session and even at a slumber party with friends and families might seem harmless, but, today, where almost everybody has a digital camera, camera phone and software to alter pictures, nothing is impossible.

It’s not just prospective or current employers one needs to watch out for, but those who are regarded as role models should also be careful when posting anything online.

For example, teachers who use vulgar language while chatting with friends on networking sites, those who talk about their bosses or colleagues online, or photographs of doctors smoking would be seen and heard.

What would their students, colleagues or patients think of them when they see these postings?

BIBI,
Rembau.