Social media platforms provide an online stage for performance, allowing us to construct and display an identity (Pearson, 2009). Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and online dating sites are used by people to build networks of friends, dates and business partners based on this identity (Donath and Boyd, 2004). However, while I don't discount that enhanced connectivity can be beneficial for society, I do wonder if the idea of networking has a way to go in terms of becoming a safe and reliable online environment.
Donath and Boyd (2004, 73) explain that "online, identity is mutable and unanchored by the body”; allowing one to establish an online self that closely resembles or wildly differs from reality (Pearson, 2009). So, how can one really know whether or not the person they are highly compatible with on Match.com is real, and has genuine intentions? Furthermore, what are the consequences if they are not real?
(Image accessed: www.google.com.au)
We are all aware of at least one form of online identity deception; whether it is an online scammer, a cheat, or a romance gone wrong. Perhaps you simply suspect a false identity?
Although most popular social networking sites have security settings, perhaps greater precautions and more effective methods of identity verification are needed?
REFERENCE LIST
Donath, J and D Boyd. 2004. “Public displays of connection”. BT Technology Journal 22(4). Accessed March 10, 2011. www.blackboard.qut.edu.au
Pearson, Erika. 2009. “All the world wide web’s a stage: the performance of identity in online social networks”. First Monday 14 (3).Accessed March 8, 2011. www.blackboard.qut.edu.au
LINK REFERENCE LIST
Facebook. “Arj Barker”. Accessed March 14, 2011 . http://www.facebook.com/people/Arj-Barker/901595149
Herald Sun. “Online love leads to online loss”. Last modified March 14, 2011. http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/online-love-leads-to-online-loss/story-e6frf7kx-1226007793864
Stungundotcom. 2008. “Online internet dating predators”. Youtube video, posted May 18 2008. Accessed March 14, 2011. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiIBsD4I1JA
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