Linked to that memory may be feelings of frustration, disappointment or perhaps humor, and the all-important realization that it is crucial to read instructions.  While some learn this lesson within the context of toy assembly, when it comes to technology and online use, many still fail to read the “instructions” that consist of acceptable use agreements, online rights and responsibilities, and information about ever-changing privacy (and other) settings.

Whether we are employees, parents, teachers, students, or individual users, it is our responsibility alone to read and understand the instructions and fine-print; it is not the responsibility of the government or a service provider.  This was reinforced in 2011 when, in California, the legislature refused to pass the Social Networking Privacy Act (SB 242), which would have prohibited and penalized social networking sites from displaying certain types of identifying information about minors.

It is admittedly tempting to skip over the instructions, particularly with our limited time and as technology has shifted much of the burden for conducting business on the user or consumer.  For example, users are often prompted to review cumbersome legal notices, provide formal responses to seemingly informal online communications, input personal data, control privacy, and manage accounts relating to important concerns such as finances and health.

With this shift, however, it is even more important for users to take responsibility and be informed.  The consequences for failing to do so are too great and can result in privacy breaches, safety concerns, use violations, discipline, prosecution, civil fines, account shutdowns, and the entry into undesirable, one-sided use agreements.

Ultimately, it is important to remember that when online, you are building a network, a reputation, and a legacy, not a toy.  Remember to read the instructions.

This article was written by iKeepSafe Advisory Board member Penelope Glover as a guest contributor for iKeepSafe and reposted with permission by iKeepSafe.

Ms. Glover is a Senior Associate with Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo’s Education Law Practice Group, which represents school districts, county offices of education, professional education organizations and community colleges throughout California.  In addition to training and advising clients on technology and human resources issues, Ms. Glover regularly conducts independent investigations into alleged claims of misconduct by students and staff.  Ms. Glover also assists schools with the development and implementation of policies and practices which are consistent with current law and changing technologies.