Blog Post 2

For as long as I can remember, social media has been an important aspect of peoples life. Teenagers in particular, are one group that uses social media the most. Information is being shared about people every single day through the use of social media. Through social media, browser history, online forms, online purchases, etc. are all things used by consumers that share your information. In my experience, I’ve shared my personal information everywhere; sometimes without even realizing. When I’m shopping online, I give my credentials such as my credit card information, my name, my phone number, and address. I share photos of myself on social media, I give information like my age, where I’m from, what I identify myself as, etc. all over the internet without realizing the risk all that comes with. My data profile doesn’t really consist of anything crazy like how to get away with murder or something or pornography. I mostly online shop for shoes or I’m searching about things I didn’t know about, different hairstyles, etc. If someone seen my search history they’d think I’m a regular girl who’s curious about the world or they may suggest I like to spend money on things I don’t really need. When I go on the internet I see all sorts of ads that have to do with things I previously searched on my phone or my laptop. Sometimes I’d be having a conversation with someone and I go to search something, the same thing I was talking about shows in an ad. This makes me question how my information is being leaked into an ad. Why is it that an ad pops up about a conversation I was having? Is my phone recording what I say? Is it safe to talk around my phone? Where else are my conversations with people going? All these questions are unfortunately left unanswered. The internet isn’t something to play with because no matter what you do on it, it comes back to you. What you search or what you post will always be there even if you clear your history or delete the post. I've done some stupid things on the internet that I regret because I know it's still there. If someone wanted to, they could go back and see everything I have ever done. Sometimes I question if the internet is worth it or not. Should I risk a future potential job over a post or should I not post at all. If I don't post or go through the internet, will I miss out on the new trends and things happening around the world? Social media and the internet will always be a touchy subject with me.