Introduction

When used correctly, online social networks have numerous positive attributes; however, when used incorrectly or without compliance to standard rules and regulations, social networks have approximately the same number of negative aspects. Facebook, created in 2004, is a free social network which helps members identify each other and keep in contact with friends from various places around the world. According to Jeff Cain’s article, since the birth of Facebook in 2004, it has captivated more than 22 million users (Cain, para.3). While 80%-90% of Facebook’s 22 million users are college students (Cain, para.4), they are not the only ones utilizing this social network. Contrary to popular belief, Facebook has many other applicable services. Majority of Facebook’s capabilities are obvious; ability to share comments, pictures, and videos, connect with and befriend hundreds of people around the world, develop relationships, as well as maintain previously established relationships with friends worldwide, and learn and inform others of occurring public and personal events of interest. However, the less obvious uses of social networks, particularly Facebook, are the most influential. As a result of the large amount of social network users’ ignorance regarding privacy policies, as well as an immense amount of carelessness, Facebook, and similar social networks, have the capability to serve as a reference site for prospective employers, law enforcement agencies, and school officials of all ranks and areas.