What Does Google Know About YOU?

Have you ever tried to Google yourself? If you haven’t, I definitely suggest it.

The other day, I decided to do a Google search on myself including images and overall search. What I came across were old newsletters I was featured in, and links to my social media pages to name a few. Despite my high security settings on my Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, and Foursquare accounts, Google was able to display past and current profile pictures, as well as my friend’s profile pictures, and the exact link to my page. Although my name “Jade Zylberberg,” is quite rare which increases my chance of being featured on Google, I was surprised as to how much information there was about me.

Be aware when you post pictures, and sign up for any websites or accounts. You never know what Google will show of you!

A Simple Wave of the Hand

As individuals of a technology generation, we’re all used to creating passwords for our various accounts. We all know there are specific requirements and sometimes, one has so many passwords to remember, they become hard to keep track of. 

“The problem with passwords — we use too many of them, their rules are complex, and they differ for different websites.” That is why Intel has created a device to make our lives easier. 

Their prototype technology will recreate our online identity, as the individual will simply wave their hand to access their online banking, social networking websites and e-mail. This will all be done through a “biometric sensor that recognizes the unique patterns of veins on a person’s palm.”

Can you imagine waving your hand at your computer?

http://business.financialpost.com/2012/09/13/passwords-could-be-a-relic-of-the-past-if-this-intel-technology-takes-off/

Future Employers and Facebook

Labour laws in Canada prevent employers from inquiring about age, marital status, and personal information, such as your Facebook password. Just because Canada has these labout laws does not mean employers will not ask you for your Facebook password.

And while some employers may not ask for your password, they may ask you to log in during the interview or accept a friend request from the hiring manager while the interview process is still occurring.

Of course, several employers and job counseling firms, and Facebook have all stated that anyone faced with this situation should refuse to hand over their personal information. Some people worry that by refusing to give their passwords they will no longer be considered for the position, but they should be worrying if this is the kind of employer and company they want to work for? As well, if the company is asking for your password despite the fact it is a violation of privacy, what makes you think they haven’t already viewed it?

Although Canada has strict labour laws that respect privacy rights, should labour laws be formed that specifically address social media and the surrounding issues? Either way, more people than you think have probably seen your Facebook page, which is why everyone should be cautious of what they post and their online identity. 

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/career-advice/potential-employer-wants-your-facebook-password-just-say-no/article4096413/

The Importance of an Online Identity

When many individuals think of an online identity, they associate it with its negative aspects. However, as we discussed in class, an online identity can prove to be very important for oneself and one's business.

A successful online identity can promote oneself or an organization, and can prove to be helpful when trying to find a job or making connections. It is possible that a potential employer could do a simple Google or Facebook search, and their hope is to find positive articles as opposed to negativity (for example: slandering, use of illegal substances).

On the other hand, there are many instances where a potential employer has become suspicious that the individual did not have an online identity. It posed questions like: “Why don’t they have Facebook?” “What are they hiding?”

Therefore, when applying for a job (and on a regular basis), don’t necessarily change your name on Facebook to become “invisible.” Rather, maintain a positive online identity, by avoiding posting anything inappropriate.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month

With all the thought of one’s online identity, the United States Department of Homeland Security created National Cyber Security Awareness Month for the month of October each year. This was created nine years ago to engage and educate the public about cybersecurity.

Each week in October, National Cyber Security Awareness Month will focus on one topic:

Week 1: Stop. Think. Connect- cybersecurity awareness

Week 2: Law Enforcement and Cybersecurity- national and local efforts to prevent identity theft

Week 3: Industry Efforts in Cybersecurity- strategies businesses can use to strengthen their own cybersecurity defenses

Week 4: K-Life: Digital Literacy Efforts- shows urgent need to develop cyber education programs for next generation

The government gives these simple steps to remain secure online:

·      Set strong passwords and don’t share with anyone

·      Keep your operating system optimized by installing updates

·      Maintain an open dialogue with family, friends and community about internet safety

·      Limit the amount of personal information posted online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely

·      Be cautious about what you receive or read online

So, will you be participating in National Cyber Security Awareness Month?

http://www.dhs.gov/national-cyber-security-awareness-month

The Success Of LinkedIn And Why You Should Have It

Most university students spent countless hours on Facebook a day but as they prepare to enter the workforce, they should put a few of those hours into LinkedIn. While one may not think having a profile on LinkedIn will be worthwhile, the success of the website has proven otherwise, as discussed in the article from The Telegraph.

The article discusses why LinkedIn has become a success. LinkedIn enables professionals and young adults to showcase their abilities and achievements for anyone to see, a successful, proactive approach to building a professional network. LinkedIn also enables us, as university students, to connect with professionals and reach out to them. Building relationships and connections is often how many people find a job or at least get their foot in the door with a company, therefore LinkedIn gives you the ability to reach out and connect or message people who may help you and your career.

            Next time Dalhousies’s Career Services sends you an email about the upcoming LinkedIn workshop, you should greatly conider signing up, especially those who do not have LinkedIn.

Here is the article:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/social-media/6406274/LinkedIn-the-secret-to-the-online-business-networks-success.html 

Online Identity Theft - Be careful of what you post online

When the average teenager enters their first year of University, they are naïve and trusting of the environment they’re in. Thus, when they’re adding pictures on Facebook, tweeting or using other social media platforms, they aren’t necessarily thinking of what others might think of their online identity.

An article was posted from US News about this topic in particular, targeting University students, and how they can protect their online identity. The article claimed that online theft happens regularly- hacking onto online bank accounts, e-mail accounts, and social media websites. An interesting point made was that many students over share information on Facebook, Twitter and other platforms, that can lead to thieves impersonating legitimate companies (banks etc…), attempting to obtain their personal information and password details. The main problem is that students are inexperienced, and need to learn how to protect their online identities.

In order to protect themselves, students should refrain from including personal information on social media websites. This includes addresses, credit card information, Social Insurance Number, or date of birth. It is imperative to use different passwords for different accounts and never share passwords with anyone.

Read the article and be careful of what you post online!

http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2012/10/02/how-to-protect-against-identity-theft-in-college