Be Careful Online: Not Everyone Is a True 'Friend'
After much hesitation, I finally set up a Facebook account. So I wouldn't be seen as a dinosaur, I've also registered on Twitter.com. I haven't been tweeting much, but I'm now part of the throng of folks socializing with their keyboards.
Like many other columnists, I share personal stories to make a point. However, on the social networks I've limited my communication to my professional persona. For example, I don't list my date of birth. Heck, my kids are not even sure how old I am. I've been 29 for many years. If I want my friends to know where I'm vacationing, I'll call them. Ditto on my dinner plans.
My fans or critics will just have to contend with professional conversation because, in a nutshell, I'm paranoid. And you should be too if you're gabbing about your life on various online social networks. Like a pickpocket working a crowded public venue, cyber thieves may be collecting information that makes victimizing you so much easier with all the personal data you provide.
