Socially Not Working

Truth be told, when it comes to social networks, I have a love-hate relationship with them. I love services such as Facebook and Twitter as they connect me to my friends and I can easily get updates on what's happening on their side of life. Other than that, they also keep me in the loop when it comes to my favorite websites, movies, comics and even bands or artists. Not to mention, some of the games can get quite addictive.

Now, when it comes to the whole hating part, I find a lot of people who tend to share a bit too much of their personal lives on social networks. I know I'm not the only person who faces this as I'm pretty sure even you (yes, YOU, my dear reader) have encounter a friend who shared just a little too much detail on what happened in their lives. Do we really need to know how that nasty dish you ate ended up in the loo? I don't think so. Do we really need to know how you managed to pop a zit off your face? Well, good for you. Now you can audition for an Oxy commercial.

Some people may think this is cute but seriously, I think it just makes them look ignorant and stupid. Social networks were made for us to connect with loved ones and actually share with them constructive and conducive updates. Yes, things don't have to be dull and should be interesting, but not to the point of it being overly interesting.

Another thing I find irritating is how some 'friends' will constantly tag you in photos of products they want to sell. Yes, I know you can easily un-tag those photos but seriously, I don't think I'm the best person to sell purses or pantyhoses to. Beside these 'friends', companies can also easily tag you with their products and clutter up your wall and photo albums. So for those of you who are selling things online, I only have this to say to you, “Please do your research on your target market!”

Foursquare and Facebook's Check-In feature are actually quite useful as it allows your friends to meet up with you at your favorite hang-out spot. It also informs those who are “following” you to know which are the hottest places to go. But have you ever thought how it could be used to endanger your wellbeing? Think about it. You broadcast your location on the Internet and any Tom, Dick and Harry can easily track where you go. Now, you may say that you don't always hang out at the same spot, but there are some of you who tend to check in at home. The place where it was once the most safe place on Earth can now be easily tracked by stalkers or even robbers.

It may seem that I am being very critical when it comes to social networks but like I said, it's just a love-hate relationship. There are things that I like on social networks other than connecting with friends and families, but I still think we need to watch what we do on the Internet, especially when it comes to social networks. I hate to block and delete friends off my list but hey, when push comes to shove I will hit that Delete and Block button.