Protecting Privacy on Social Media: The Use of Different Names and the Concept of Doxing

Introduces the importance of privacy on social media and the use of different names to protect personal information, the impact of having a real name on social media, and the concept of doxing with examples.

Introduction to Social Media Anonymity and Privacy

Why use a different name for social media?

Introducing the idea that using a different name on social media can enhance privacy and protect personal information from potential harm, such as 'doxing'. The text opens with a personal story from the author, David Moore, who chooses to use his real name on social media mainly to prevent posting false and irresponsible comments and to reduce aggression. He lives in a remote part of Malaysia, where few people know him, making the use of a real name less of a necessity.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Real Name on Social Media

Using a real name vs. a pseudonym

While the author believes in the importance of integrity and one's actions reflecting on their words, he admits that using a real name on social media is not a universal necessity, especially if the person's identity can be easily verified. He shares his experience as a local doctor, where his registration and practice details are already a matter of public information.

With a public profile, the author is open about his thoughts and sharing his experiences online, which he finds beneficial for his personal growth and communication with patients. However, he also mentions that he avoids posting personal information about his wife and son, as he believes they should not be part of his public sharing.

The Concept of Doxing and Its Impact

What is doxing?

Doxing refers to the act of publicly posting personal information about an individual online, often for malicious purposes. The author discusses the concept of doxing and its varying levels of significance based on public presence and personal views. He argues that for those in the public eye or with unpopular views, doxing can be a genuine risk. However, for the majority of individuals, the risk is more random and less targeted.

The author shares his own experiences with doxing, mentioning that he has abandoned multiple Facebook accounts to ensure his privacy and prevent unwanted information from being shared. He concludes by advising that while the risk of doxing may not change much for individuals, it is better to be random with such occurrences, as perps will move on more quickly.

Conclusion: Balancing Privacy and Integrity

Reiterates the importance of balancing transparency and privacy on social media, stressing that while the act of sharing public information can enhance transparency and authenticity, it is equally important to safeguard personal information from potential threats.

Key Takeaways

Using a different name on social media can enhance privacy and protect personal information from potential harm, including doxing. Transparency and authenticity are valued, but personal information must be protected from malicious sharing. The risk of doxing is higher for individuals in the public eye or with unpopular views, but can be mitigated through careful online practices.

The article provides a balanced perspective on privacy and integrity on social media, encouraging readers to consider the potential risks and benefits of using different names and protecting personal information from being publicly shared.