Recently, Facebook has come under fire for not protecting the personal data of millions of users. Equifax and Yahoo have also had serious issues recently.
French philosopher Michael Foucault rolls in his grave as he considers the public’s willingness to enter a state of panopticon. (Panopticism is the method through which prisons are surveyed, in that the guards may view the prisoners but not the other way around).
Mass surveillance has become prevalent and easily accessible in our ever-changing world. Social media websites have allowed us to voluntarily become watched. Keep in mind that things posted on the internet do not disappear. Websites may store your data and target advertisements/propaganda at you based on the information they’ve collected. Future employers may see your internet presence and refuse to hire you.
If you are involved in any type of lawsuit (divorce, custody, business suit, property dispute, injury case) your posts could show up in the case as part of discovery, or, even worse , as a trial exhibit projected into the courtroom! When you post on the internet, assume it is seen by someone. Assume this data is stored. It most likely is. This is a reminder to watch your presence on social media in order for you to have more opportunities.
Thank you for your consideration. If you need legal consultation, please call the Kalish Law Office at 281-363-3700.
