The internet has effected our way of communicating in good ways and bad ways. Most of my family lives in a different state than me and I am lucky if I see them once a year. Through the internet, I am able to keep in semi-constant communication with them. I receive emails, messages, pictures, and video from them through email or facebook. In this way, it makes the separation more tolerable and I don't feel as though I am missing out on anything.
The bad thing about communicating through the internet (via facebook or other social networks) is that it is easy for total strangers to read personal information about you if you are not careful. Identity theft is a real problem because people forget how public some sites are and share just a bit too much information. Some thing are better left off the internet.
Another problem with social networks it that a friend or family member can post anything about you, (a picture, video, or even private information) and not have to ask your permission. I know we all try to protect our privacy, but at some point ,I guess we have to accept the fact that something about us that we don't want shared with the rest of the world will eventually find its way to the internet.
I think it's great that you are able to keep in touch with your family and friends out of state. That is probably one of the best uses for social networking. I definitely agree that using social networking puts yourself out there for practically anyone (with the will) to see! I know a lot of people who choose not even to get a Facebook, because they are so paranoid about other people seeing personal information!
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