A couple of things have happened to me recently that made me think about our ever greater presence on the Internet. Specifically, how the Internet is coming to know us and how other people are doing the same through its use.
The Internet's dance with us:
My friend was recalling to me how in the past couple weeks the Internet has become a little to up-close-and-personal. He was saying that LinkedIn sent him an email to join and guessing at people he may know. He then told me that he has never even come close to getting a LinkedIn, but he did know most of the people. One recommended guy was another man that was in a couple of his classes that he had never talked to. Facebook has likewise been recommending many people to him, but not just those around his age group or with similar interests--his landlord for example! You used to have to follow someone home to know where they lived, but Facebook can do it without moving an inch. I don't know about you but I wish there was a little more distance between me and Facebook; this tango is getting a little too intimate.
The Internet standing at the water cooler:
I went to Smith's today and ran into my wonderful assistant and newfound friend Chris from the quest for ribbon and bendable wire. As he helped me prepare my emergency car kit, we were talking about a lot of various things. I told him some things which then led my middle name to come out and my last name as well. At a completely different time we were talking about women needing to protect themselves and guns and all of that. Thats when I realized with my full name he could find me on Facebook, at the University, and probably a lot more info. I could then potentially be in danger. Now, I think that Chris is a really cool guy and not dangerous at all, but still it is something to think about. Stranger danger. You become a stranger to no one because the Internet is whispering your secrets all over the office.
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