Meet Facebook’s New Rival

So, there has been enough controversy going around regarding Facebook’s privacy flaws. And if that’s not enough, news of scams and hacks resulting from Facebook’s lack of privacy controls have put the half-billion Facebook users on constant alert. Sure, Facebook did announce newer measures to allow options for improved security. But who could forget the initial phase where members’ profile information were all so transparent?

Diaspora is a social networking system built amidst the zenith of privacy concerns. Created by four students, it is supposed to “end all woes” pertaining to privacy. And boy, it certainly has emerged at the right time. It is only recently that news of Facebook “hates” are going around – mostly due to the lack of “personal space”.

While one could easily argue on the definition of “personal space” in cyberspace, Diaspora has sprung up to communicate the message to social networkers, “Hey! That’s not true! Social networking can still be fun and safe at the same time!”

Moreover, if you are also one of those who are biting your nails with anxiety because your boss or colleagues have first-hand knowledge of your whereabouts and any uncontrollable fits of work-related rantings (thanks to your regular status updates or your friends’ disclosure), fret not now. A blog post of Diaspora states: “That means an intuitive way for users to decide, and not notice deciding, what content goes to their co-workers and what goes to their drinking buddies. We know that’s a hard [user interface] problem and we take it seriously.”

So here’s the good news for privacy advocates. Diaspora has recently released its beta version and is now “live”. However, this beta version is currently available to invited persons only. If you care enough for a tad more control on your virtual presence, you can try getting an invite here. We are not sure about the success of this new social network site, but there will be many who would welcome an extra notch of privacy measures, judging by the number of Facebook “dislikes” recently.

And just in case, we always believe that prevention is best. There can never be absolute privacy in the open rivers of cyberspace. Do yourself a favour by not disclosing any personal information that includes your birthdates, home address, bank account information (duh), etc. Be alert always.