Monday 21 March 2011

Securing And Monitoring Social Networks And Virtual Worlds

In the present digital era all of us are aware of and are actively using social networking sites and tools. Social networking tools provide us a platform to meet like minded people and share common interests.

Further, social networking platforms also allow us to engage in professional networking and personal relationships. However, like all other technology products and services, social networking platforms and tools have their own drawbacks too.

If we are not careful enough, we provide valuable and personal details without realising that they may be misused. A majority of us are not aware that social networking sites and virtual worlds are also favourite destinations for cyber criminals.

Similarly, virtual worlds like Second Life have their own set of problems in cyberspace, says Praveen Dalal, managing partner of Perry4Law and leading techno legal expert of India. In the past theft of “Virtual Property” in the Second Life and cyber frauds have already happened, informs Dalal.

It is of utmost importance that cyber security of social networking sites and virtual worlds is given prime importance, says Dalal. Not only these social networking sites must be strongly secured but they must also be monitored for cyber crimes and related activities on a regular basis, suggests Dalal.

Indian cyber law must be suitably formulated to cater the requirements of present times. The present information technology act, 2000 of India is outdated and deserves to be repealed. Further, India should also give more attention to cyber security related issues that are presently missing.