The Pitfalls of MySpace

It seems like everyone in the world has a MySpace page these days. I admit this is a great networking tool and it is always nice to run into an old friend that you have lost touch with. I realize that the Internet is what it is. It is a means of mass communication, but it also a means of an anonymous communication. At least people like to believe it is. I am firm believer in importance of first impressions. Let's face it... the Internet is a place where great first impressions happen.

When it comes to MySpace, your page represents the first impression that you present to the rest of the Internet world. Below is a list of problems that can arise from your MySpace page:

1. Divulging too much personal information- This should be a common sense, but for some I realize common sense isn't quite that common. If you do not want to be stalked it's best to not invite danger to your doorstep. I know that the Internet creates a false sense of security, but it is just that...FALSE. There are people who use sites like MySpace to make their criminal activities easier to conduct. There are other people who would love to steal your identity, because there's in not getting them what they want out of life.

2. MySpace spreads far and wide- This means that the picture of you holding a beer bottle giving the camera the middle finger does not portray you has a very upstanding, positive person. Granted, there is nothing wrong with a good beer, but my point is...is it the first thing you want people to think of when they think of you? You never know who may stumble across your page. If you do not want your mom, teacher, or employer to know about your drug habits, I suggest not posting the picture of the Marijuana leaf on your page.

3. MySpace can breed liars and fakes-Ever notice how so many people on MySpace claim to be rich, famous, and intelligent? Stating that you make six figures and are self-employed can translate into you're really unemployed but either sell your body or drugs to get by. I realize that honesty is a difficult concept for many people to grasp, but it is an important one.