Social networking is everywhere. It is common to find parents, children, coworkers and even the elderly on the networks across the social media world on sites such as Twitter, MySpace, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn. With social networks people across the world have access to tools and options that were previously non-existent. However, there are just as many new opportunities to connect as there are to get into potential danger. Social networking has opened up many new doorways for cyber-crime, and with all the people on social networks who are completely new to technology, it is more important than ever to make sure people are aware of the risks.
The popularity and market penetration of social media sites have made their utilization important for businesses who wish to keep their online presence visible to the public. Unfortunately, in a post WEB 2.0 world, more visibility can mean more vulnerability. Consumer generated content means that individuals have more power than ever to affect your company, by either supporting you or by criticizing you. The new word of mouth is spread through sites like Facebook, Twitter, Digg, Stumble Upon, YouTube (and others), and through blogs, RSS feeds, open discussion forums, and consumer review websites.
Social media sites have opened a new arena in website promotion by way of social bookmarking. Today’s existing Internet technology recognizes the importance of the web as a social tool and its potential as a great way to increase site traffic.