Foursquare, Gowalla, and now Facebook places — as location based apps become more and more mainstream, there are some things that people are forgetting.
Now, I’m all about getting on board and adopting the newest trends. Location based apps are great and serve so many great uses. But, there is one big concern. That is, the growing number of people who have little to no commonsense.
This is particularly troubling when Foursquare or Gowalla users sync their updates with Twitter or Facebook. I’ve seen tweets on my stream with people checking into their “houses.” Now, this is just about the stupidest thing you can possibly do. Can you say STRANGER DANGER?
I don’t want to sound like some crazy, paranoid lady? Because, I’m far from it. I’m on Foursquare. I “check-in” places too. I just tend to utilize common sense.
Checking into your house or a family or friend’s house/apartment is just dumb. Not only are you putting yourself at risk, but you are also exposing friends and family to the same dangers.
If you simply must check in at your house or apartment (I don’t encourage this), then at least check in “off the grid.” Therefore, “creepy Fred” or whoever can’t stalk your every move.
This should be obvious. But, don’t check in and broadcast your extended vacation. You wouldn’t leave your newspapers out on the front lawn for two weeks. So, why publish your extended vacation on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, etc. That’s just asking to be a victim of a crime.
Lastly, be careful about checking in to places, if you are alone. This is especially true for women. Is a badge or an extra mayorship really worth putting yourself at risk? I hope the answer is no.
Again, location-based apps are great, but it seems like so many people need to realize that their online actions may be putting them at risk.
