History repeats itself in Web 2.0
News.com posted an interesting piece today that made some important points about the security risks of Web 2.0 technologies. Yet, as significant as this issue is, the phenomenon in many ways was entirely predictable.
The historical trend for modern technologies has been innovation first, attempts at commercialization second and, inevitably, security breaches third (if not earlier). The Internet accelerated that cycle to new heights even in the days of early dial-up access, as Kevin Mitnick showed the world, and the Web has since produced all manner of hacks, viruses, malware, phishing and other threats. It only makes sense to expect more of the same in the openness of social networking.
This mass medium, more than any other, reflects all strata and sectors of society--good and bad. And just as is the case in brick-and-mortar neighborhoods, it's naturally prudent to be aware of potential risks and to take reasonable precautions against virtual attacks. But perhaps the most important lesson from real life is not to panic.
Joris Evers, the reporter who wrote today's security story, made this very point in a report last fall on identity theft that brought level-headed analysis to a much-hyped topic. The point? The possibility of getting mugged is no reason to stay shuttered inside all the time; nor is it a reason to avoid interactive technologies, especially at a time that is so rich with potential to improve society.
