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Facebook unveiled plans for the biggest ever Internet IPO that could raise as much as $10 billion, but made it clear CEO Mark Zuckerberg will exercise almost complete control over the company, leaving investors with little say Image Credit: Supplied

The dangers presented to society by those who misuse Facebook, a social networking site, are increasingly highlighted all over the world. But Facebook is not alone.

There are other networking sites as well. To some this has become an addiction, albeit with disastrous results. Misuse contributes to ruined lives, stolen identities, destroyed marriages and homes. Fraud and corruption go on to complete the list of woes.

The sad case of a young Abu Dhabi-based school teacher committing suicide, after an ex-boyfriend allegedly sought to humiliate her on Facebook, and the fake profiles of suspected assassins who killed Hamas commander Mahmoud Al Mabhouh on the same site are just two examples.

Millions network using the computer. Information on individuals is easily accessible by fair means and foul. Users must take advantage of the privacy settings and secure their identities and personal information — or pay a heavy price.