I recently wrote a paper regarding the lack of security around social networking sites and their users. Recently there was another example where the wife of the UK International Spy Agency Chief’s information was exposed. Not that this constituted a data breach, but rather his wife had posted information regarding the location of their London home, where their children went to school and played, etc. It also had information about their friends and families. Sounds like a goldmine for someone that wants to do a kidnapping or ransom.
When it comes to social networking, it isn’t just about what you post, but what those around you post. For example, for the protection of my family I try to never post anything regarding my travel plans. My sister was planning to be in Las Vegas at the same time as me and posted on her site how excited she was that we would be down there together. She essentially gave out locations, dates, events, and other things. This type of behavior could affect your family or friends. It could impact their employment or safety and the list goes on and on. I find it amazing that people will ensure that they stop receiving the newspaper so that they don’t pile up on the driveway letting people know they are on a trip, but they announce every detail about it on their social networking sites. If you ever post anything on the Internet, just assume that everyone in the world can see it…because in all likelihood, they can.
