Privacy and Confidentiality

New media has altered the traditional concept of privacy and confidentiality given the nature of how information flows and communication is conducted in our modern world.  Prior to the popularity and ease of accessibility that new media tools and technologies provided, there was a generally accepted definition of one’s privacy as well as who has control over it.  Traditionally people held the notion that real and private property was theirs.  Thus, they were in control of what and how much to maintain confidential and when and what to make available.  However, new media has facilitated the availability of information.  Given this and the popularity of people willingly providing it, so as to ‘update’ their statuses and remain informed, are sacrificing their right to privacy and confidentiality in exchange for access. 

         New media has blurred the boundaries of privacy and confidentiality and because of this many issues in relation to it have aroused.  In attempts to clarify what is remain private or not sites instate privacy agreements that users must accept. In addition to this, the ease of content access and use has led to widespread misuse and reproduction information.  It is very important to instate functioning rules and generally accepted norms so that privacy and confidentiality issues do not become rampant.  It is inevitable for privacy to not be involved when it comes to new media; yet, actions can be taken to avoid further complications.  Individuals must take proper care and be conscious of the information they make available as well as how it will and can be used.