Abstract

Information privacy in an information age is a paradoxical issue, especially with the recent innovations of the Internet. Social networking sites collect a great deal of personal information about their users. Previous studies regarding both traditional and online commercial marketplace privacy issues have found consumers to be wary of disclosing personal information, but also unaware of the regulations concerning sharing of customer information among companies. This study focused on the differences between heavy and light users’ perceptions on privacy on Facebook. Results from a 25-question survey showed heavy users of social networking sites perceive a greater depth of communication on Facebook and have a more accurate perception of Facebook’s privacy policy than did light users of social networking sites.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Facebook--Public opinion; Online social networks--Research; College students--Attitudes; Privacy; Data protection

Publication Date

8-1-2008

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Department of Communication (CLA)

Advisor

Pugliese, Rudy

Advisor/Committee Member

Blizzard, Deborah

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: HM742 .W27 2008

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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