Twenty-five years ago it was the personal computing
industry’s goal to have a computer in every home. Today, over 65% of Americans
carry computers with them in the form of smartphones. With personal computing
permeating our lives (we check our phones over 50 times a day) Internet use has
grown exponentially. Questions and facts are all answered and checked during
conversations. It’s safe to say that there is nothing that cannot be found on
the Internet. This includes details of one’s personal life.
I read it on the
Internet
People become Internet detectives. Quick to check friends, family members,
and the pasts of love interests. Not sure what will be found, searchers often
dangerously jump to conclusions, without properly vetting the information. In
addition to the misinformation that circulates on the Internet, most people
don’t understand exactly what they’re reading. In the case of criminal records
one has to understand the difference between arrests and convictions. There are
also terms of probation that affect the final dispositions. When criminal
records are returned during a search, how do you know it’s the same person?
Quick Internet searches, without proper analysis, can cause embarrassment as
well as legal action.
How well do you know
someone?
Employers often say that they only hire people they know or
for whom others vouch, apply that to your personal lives. How well do you
really know someone? Other than someone you are with 24/7/365, everyone has
secrets. Has anyone ever thought so much of your relationship that you were
listed as a reference to obtain a government clearance? Answering those
questions about social habits and character can really open your eyes as to how
well you really know the person.
Do not be so quick to pass judgment on what you find on the
Internet. You might cause someone unnecessary pain or set your business up for
a court visit.
