Facebook, as we all know, has grown to be maybe the biggest social networking website we will ever know. Most of us, if not all of us, taking this course probably have a Facebook account and check it at least once a day. In August 2010, Facebook announced its launch of Facebook Places. Places was created to allow users to "check-in" to their locations so their friends knew where they were. The purpose of this application was to connect with friends even more than we already do. For instance, if I am at a restaurant and check-in using the Places application then any of my friends near by would know where I am and could come see me.
Great idea! But, not so much. Do we really want our friends, family, and coworkers knowing where we are at all times? Taking a more paranoid approach, what if we have "friends" on Facebook that aren't really our friends and want to hurt us. They could rob our homes while were gone, or they could stalk you to all of your locations throughout the day. Also, if you are meeting a friend for dinner, your friend can check you in using Places. What if you don't want to be checked-in to a location because you would rather your Facebook friends not know your exact locations at all times? Yes, there are ways to opt out, but it's just one added thing that you need to keep an eye on.
I believe Facebook is a good way to stay connected with old friends and family, but I think sometimes we are TOO connected. It's nice to be able to run an errand to the grocery store without having to announce it to your friends through Facebook or to put yourself in danger. And, in the same respect, I would rather not know the every move of my friends. I see this app as something that could really get people in trouble.
Facebook Places
I agree Laura but my Facebook lack of privacy concerns started way before the "Places" application. I've actually neglected canceling my account completely only because I think it is necessary to stay current with the times (just behind email or a cell phone). It troubles me that more people are not concerned with the information they are making readily available to the public. I also loved your reference to "friends"- sometimes it's difficult to remember what that term really refers to!
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