Social and ethical issues of MySpace

The next bit I did is Changing Nature of Work, which is difficult cause MySpace can't exactly change it's nature of work, cause it will always involve computer, unless they want to evolve into something bigger like MySpace Cafes which is highly unlikely, there is no changing nature of work currently. So my response focuses more in the changing nature of businesses and how social networking sites affect them positively and negatively. Mostly negative though.

Changing Nature of Work (How MySpace effects Businesses)

• Companies such as News Corp (NWS) use Myspace as a form of communication between colleagues.
• Many advertising companies such as coke, Sony, pictures digital have used Myspace as a site for advertising
• In 2007 a law firm found that British businesses may be losing $260 million a day for using social networking sites like MySpace.
• Myspace reduces productivity in the work place.
• An a LA Times survey claimed that Americans waste two hours a day at work on social networking sites. Estimate loss of $759 billion dollars a day.
• Some companies have resulted in banning Myspace at work.
• There is a growing movement of promoting Myspace at work. Companies use social networking sites to facilitate business.
• In the 2008 Presidential election, candidates took advantage of social networking sites, to rally supporters and to obtain donations.

Social and ethical issues of MySpace

I have done this so far, and now left is changing nature of work and the type of software MySpace uses.

Data quality

• Myspace are not responsible under data protection laws for information distributed by members.
• Poorly formatted codes can be hard to access pages. Poorly constructed Myspace profiles can freeze web browsers. Myspace blocks harmful codes such as JavaScript.
• Myspace is contaminated with spy ware and increase the likelihood of infections and viruses for users. There are spams on bulletins as of result of phising
• Data in Myspace includes blogs, images, video and sound. User’s comments can be shown.
• Myspace members can control account settings.
• Myspace uses cookies to identify the user’s internet browsers, store user’s preferences and to see if software is installed to use programs on Myspace.
• Third party advertisement may have tracking cookies.
• Myspace informs users who collect data, how and why certain information is collected and the uses for that information.
• Myspace will not share personal information with third parties.
• Myspace may transfer data to certain advertising partners.
• Myspace contains third party applications such as widgets
• Myspace can block copyrighted data, such as music
• Myspace with notify users if personal information is to be shared with third parties.
• Allows search for members by using registration data and allow people to connect to members through groups
• Myspace employees must have reason to access personal data. May use data to manage
• Myspace information activities.
• If Myspace sells a part of the business or all of it, all data will be sent to the parties involved with the transaction.
• Myspace uses many measures to safeguard personal information, in its possession against loss, theft and unauthorized use.
• Myspace may review registration data.

Appropriate information use

• Accounts can be made private or public. Profiles under 16 are automatically made private and can only be viewed by friends and prohibits others from viewing.
• Myspace asks for personal information such as full name, email address, mailing address, telephone number and credit card number.
• Collects registration data- email, first, last name, postal code, gender and birthdate.
• Information posted on Myspace is voluntary.
• Collects data such as IP address, aggregate user data and browser type. Improves
• Myspace services, track, usage for security
• Members can choose to store non private information such as interests, hobbies, lifestyle, groups, messages, videos etc.
• Data may be given to third parties if the individual has choosen to receive information from third parties.
• Data may be shared with advertising companies so customization of pages can be fulfilled
• Instances where Myspace may access or disclose PII, related data, non-PII or profile information without providing the individual choice due to:
  - Protect or defend the legal rights or property of Myspace.
  - Protection of the safety and security of users
  - Protection against fraud or risk management
  - Comply with law or legal processes
• Member is responsible to make sure data posted conforms to all local data protection laws.
• Myspace is not responsible under data protection laws for member posted information.