Fake Names--- A Failsafe to Protect Ones’ Privacy

Google+, is HOT right now but not due to its prediction that it will soon rival Facebook as the next rave in social networking. Several complaints have swamped Google due to the account deletions being made in Google+, apparently for those who are not using their real names (http://pcworld.co.nz/pcworld/pcw.nsf/news/complaints-mount-over-google-account-deletions).

Google should reassess their move with regard to the account deletion having use of fake name as a criterion for deletion. They should probably take a second look as to why people/social network users use false names in their accounts. Hey! I could think of one, it provides me with a failsafe to protect my privacy. Assuring that only people I know can find me. Given the accessibility of the information found in the web that these users will be providing, I understand the hesitation of some to provide their real names. I do agree to some extent with Google that my providing real names we would be allowing people---family and friends to connect with us, those we have lost touch with due to distance and time. In the opinion of Google:

“spokeswoman said via e-mail that Google Profiles are designed to be public Web pages whose purpose is to "help connect and find real people in the real world."

"By providing your common name, you will be assisting all people you know -- friends, family members, classmates, co-workers, and other acquaintances -- in finding and creating a connection with the right person online," she wrote.” (http://pcworld.co.nz/pcworld/pcw.nsf/news/complaints-mount-over-google-account-deletions)

PHOEBE HIDALGO, Entry#6