Cherish memories but be mindful
Facebook (FB) is the place to connect with old and new friends. However, it has become such an important part of out lives that if you took it away for even an hour, it’s like you just lost a limb.
I can easily say that if FB were a person, then it would be my roommate.
I agree that Facebook users need to be more mindful of the privacy of others before posting content. Many people are not comfortable with having their photos or videos posted on Facebook and that is understandable. It’s important that we respect peoples’ privacy since we all react to situations differently.
Remember to cherish memories and have fun rather than trying to figure out the nearest Wi-Fi hotspot, what caption to type in or how many likes would you get. Social media must be used being mindful of the privacy of others before posting content
From Ms Simran Vedvyas
Dubai
Depends on intentions
The issue of posting pictures or information of others without their consent would solely depend on the relationship and the trust they have with you - it is not rocket science.
The intention behind the posts is crucial in determining whether it is appropriate or not. For instance, a group picture attending a party or office gathering wouldn’t mean harm.
So I guess the onus rests with those who choose to pose for pictures and expect the pictures will only stay private. These days casual photography means they would most likely end up in a social networking site. To think otherwise would be naive.
However, posting information and pictures with malicious intent is another matter, it should be treated as criminal offence. Also pictures taken just for personal or private viewing must not be shared on social sites or with a third person unless the consent of the subject is obtained.
From Mr V. I. Mohammad Sageer
UAE
Facebook is public
My opinion is what is posted on Facebook (FB) becomes public to all those who are on your contact list and then you have no control over it unless privacy levels are put in place. There are many who do not know about the privacy features and unintentionally have their pictures for everyone to view. This is how these images become public property.
From Ms Priti Mackinnon
UAE
Mindfulness protects openness
With the advent of the internet and social media, the very definition of privacy has changed. Earlier only celebrities had to worry about their privacy being infringed upon. But nowadays everyone faces the challenge of being a celebrity. Every post, comment or like can be seen by hundreds, if not thousands, of friends and acquaintances.
A lot of this is also freely available for outsiders due to the shifting privacy settings in social media. That means a lot of personal content can be pulled up by anyone, at any time, even before a job interview or background check.
I strongly agree that users should be mindful of the privacy of others when posting content on social media. I feel there should also be a strong level of restraint to avoid offending religious or social sensibilities.
If privacy invasion grows unchecked, it will be forced to be dealt with by the strong arm of the law. And that will go against the very grain of openness and equality that cyberspace characterises - the very characteristic that has grown it to the powerful force it is today.
From Mr Reuben George
UAE
Need to be mindful
I agree that FB users need to be more mindful of the privacy of others. I had also posted something inadvertently once. When I realised my error, I removed the pictures.
What I find equally annoying is people insisting on chatting with you when you have no clue as to who they are!
From Ms Fatima Rishana
Dubai
Ask first
When we opened the doors into the 21st century, the flood of technological advancements rushed into our world. We have seen lots of development in technology, which were initially conceived and introduced for the betterment of mankind. But now we are experiencing lots of problems as well.
FB is one of them. No doubt, it came into our world as a friend but eventually FB spread like a virus in the world.
No matter if you are three or 80 years old, you will find people sitting and using their laptops or smartphones.
If I am spending my weekend with my family on a beach, anyone passing through can take a picture, upload and share it with the public. I find this totally unethical, illegal and ridiculous.
I would request to those who use FB not misuse this facility and do not share anything for just sharing purposes without knowing the consequences. Get a confirmation first before sharing anything so that you will not be part of the masses that upload illegal, unethical and false information every day.
From Mr Asad Ekbal
Dubai
A new storage method
The judgment passed by the Italian court sheds light on different aspects on the use of social media and the changing family relationship. In the August 18 Gulf News article, ‘Court orders wife to remove honeymoon photos from Facebook,’ the wife’s lawyer’s argument is that FB is a ‘private album.’
This is also true to a great extent. When the technology changed, people used different methods to keep their memories. People should have the right to keep the photos they like on FB.
On the other hand, in the civilised world, people have the right to take action against books, newspapers, magazines or websites that make derogatory remarks, defame, or violate privacy. The husband’s lawyer remark that “it is an unprecedented decision, which provides a point of reference for Facebook users” is not correct. It is not an unprecedented decision.
However, if they are a couple in love, the wife should not do anything to hurt the feelings of her husband.
From Mr Keerthi Illnagaratna
UAE
Immediately public
Sadly, I think it is just the reality that whatever is publicly shared over social media loses its privacy.
From Ms Erly Senjaya
Ras Al Khaimah
Could be humiliating
I agree that others need to be more aware. This has happened to me: sometimes I have found my own private pictures on other people’s FB account without my knowledge. It is so terrible.
From Ms Takoua Toumi Ep Ayari
UAE
Editors’ note: Is there a news report that you feel strongly about? Something that has to be addressed in the community and requires resolution? Email us on readers@ gulfnews.com. You can also post a comment on our Facebook page or tweet us @GNReaders.
