What Not to Post on Twitter

Social Networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, Friendster, and MySpace have become more popular in the last year. They are used by major celebrities and politicians, as well as housewives and teenagers. Men and women alike compete for followers, and some users enjoy the fame of being a Twitter imposter. Knowing how to use Twitter can be a beneficial for staying connected, finding lost friends or family, and promotion. However, social networking sites can pose great risks, making many users the target of predators, and victims of their own mistakes.

Playing Hooky: You've called into work to say you're half-dead today, or skipped school because your grandparent died AGAIN...Should you lay low or spend time on Twitter and Facebook? If your answer is the first, good job! Because, the latter option may leave you suspended or without a job. Many a nosey co-worker and classmate has been known for tracking down the ones left behind (at home) and making sure the guy in charge knows all about it. So, if you must post, make it once, and only to say that you came out of the coma and are under doctors care.

Come Back To Bite You Wall Posts: We all have those ornery moments, frustrated moments, or desperately honest moments ( and ladies watch those PMS moments) and need somewhere to rant-rally-vent. However, posting anything that you would not want your parents, boss, spouse, preacher, or child to see is a big Twitter and Facebook No No! Because, as much as you don't want them to see (or know), the power of the internet and the super power of gossipy-trouble making humans guarantees they some day will. So, if you hesitate before that post, it's best to follow that instinct and save it for a phone call.
(Check out this state troopers Facebook repercussions.)

Know Thy Friends: Facebook imposters have more followers than the actual person in many cases. This is true for celebrity social networking fakes and 'everyday' imposters too. Before posting on someone's wall, adding friends, or following Justin Timberlake or John Smith on Twitter, make sure you are interacting with the real deal. (Unless of course you know they're a imposter and enjoy their hilarious renditions!)

Vacations: Posting vacation plans, especially dates and times, could leave your home and property vulnerable to would be criminals. In fact, a recent discussion found that many criminals use social networking sites to research and find victims. Not only should you keep your vacation plans to yourself, when it comes to Twitter and Facebook, but you should also ask your friends to keep comments at bay until you return. Make sure you check your wall whenever possible to see that nobody's mentioning your temporary vacancy.

Break-up's: Okay, you're done, you had it, it's over, they suck! Venting about a break up, whether it's with a boy/girl friend or a best friend, is as natural as the wind. But, relationships sometimes have a way of finding their way back....oh about a hundred time a year. So, before you spew about your ex-boys tiny tinker toy, or that ex-friends bed wetting issues, wait it out to make sure that over really means over. Besides, are you really ready for the wrath of their online revenge?

Party Announcements: Though it may make sense to hit all your friends at once with a party invitation, doing so through Twitter may leave the proverbial, and actual, door open to unwanted party crashers. What may have been a quiet dinner party or less than 20 get together could turn into a drunken house fire with a punk band and riot gear.

Slander: John's a dog! At least that's your opinion. Formed from years of watching him treat women like crap. So, you get online and post on every wall imaginable; "John's a dog!" This may be a dirty attack in John's eyes, but it's legal. However, if you post a known lie on Twitter, or other social networking sites, you could very well be accused of slander/defamation (and you can be sued). So, don't go 'wall crazy' about John having once raped a girl when you know it is not true and John has no previous allegations or charges. Stick with the dog post and protect yourself from slander and a possible social networking war.
(Look how Courtney Love go busted for slander on Twitter.)

Threats/Bulling: Judy crossed that final line and you would love to kick her ass. You most likely won't, and are more likely to hide behind a tree is you see her coming, but you want everyone to know your anger. So, you get on Facebook or Friendster and let everyone know Judy is a wench and you are going to tie her head in a knot. In a state of pure rage you may even make the off handed unintended statement "Oh I'm gonna kill Judy!" Well, Judy or Judy's mom (depending on age) can now call the appropriate authorities (possibly boss or principle or cops) and claim your are harassing her or making terrorist threats. Words can leave a lovely trail of proof. So, instead of letting everyone know that Judy's dead meat, just post a creative spell on her Facebook page or 'walls' and let the universe rip her a new one instead.
(Senator Dan Blazo got fired up over online threats and harassment this Spring.)

Personal Information: You may love the fact that you live on beautiful Xyz Lane in New York, two apartments down from the Ripped Club, but posting it on a social networking site may attract creepy tourist. Never give out or post your address, home descriptions, children's or parents names, location of employment, business email, or phone number. Set up a 'junk email', direct friends to your private messaging, and let your new sexy friend meet you for coffee before they have permission to stalk you with text messages. Besides, the people you want knowing the personal stuff, already do.

Naughty/Drunken Photos: Posting a picture of you and your cat Fuzzy is oh so cute, but posting a picture of you and fuzzy hanging upside down from the chandelier, in bubble wrap, is oh so drunk and down right stupid. Remember, what you post today may define you in the wrong light tomorrow. (And father Thomas may just have some questions on Sunday!)

I'm So Bored: You may be more excited to watch an egg boil during that 9-5. But, posting that work is sucking out your soul, numbing your mind, and boring you to oblivion may very well get you sent to a less exciting place...the unemployment line.
(Kimberly Swann is just one of many fired employee for setting her status to 'bored' while at work.)

Remember to check Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking's policy statements on subjects such as defamation and harassment

In the end remember: .Mom and dad, your boss and your principal, your friend and enemies, your community and church, and prisoner #629 from cell block 8 all have potential access to your social networks. Post with caution!

(Don't forget to check out my other article on Social Networking Addiction, and protect yourself online!)

Resources:
Online slander definitions and information
Understanding terrorist threats.
Protect your job from online activity with these professional tips for legal experts.