The internet is referred to as the “information superhighway”, a marketplace of ideas where anyone can access information and communicate. Blogging is the newest communication forum on the internet. A blog is defined as a weblog or webpage that essentially functions as an online diary or journal “with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer” (Vincent, 2006) . Since 2004, an increasing number of individuals write or read blogs. In 2006, twelve million adults had created a blog and fifty-seven million had read them (Vincent, 2006) . With the growing phenomenon of blogging, entities are jumping on board and realizing the benefits of marketing potential, yet facing pitfalls.
Cyber-smearing is one of the pitfalls of blogging. It is defined as a “false” and disparaging rumor about a company, its management, or its stock that is posted on the internet (Vincent, 2006) . Cyber-smearing results from the lack of control of the internet. Bloggers have full discretion to post content opposed to entities, anonymously. When individuals anonymously cyber-smear an entity, they are referred to as “John Does”. As a result, it has become a struggle for entities to protect their image. Businesses have sparked defamation suits against John Does.
In the growing age of information technology, blogging is the newest form of communication. The benefits of blogging can be rewarding but the pitfalls can be dreadful. Individuals have to learn how to take the good with the ugly. Individuals risk criticism when they market or communicate information. When it comes to businesses, consumers have a right to know of false or misleading practices. If the information blogged about businesses is false, bloggers must face the repercussions.
References:
Vincent, C. (2006). Cybersmear II: Blogging and the Corporate Rematch Against John Doe . Delaware Journal of Corporate Law , 987-1009.
I can see cyber-smearing being a problem. Sadly too many people will believe it instead of checking into it and that can be very harmful to a business. Just another thing to have to look out for.
ReplyDeleteSureka, it’s an interesting angle. A well known 5 diamond hotel has a person employed in the capacity of updating social media pages. Their job is to maintain updates and post regularly on facebook, twitter, other social network sites, and maintain the company blog too. An important new part of their job is dealing with complaints which are a form of cyber-smearing. A guest has an issue and while complaining to the hotel also posts the issue on-line. Of course the organization deals with these issues in the physical world quickly, but the guest does not always reflect this prompt action. The social media manager replies to these comments and creates a dialogue involving the guest, the hotel department, and the media manager to ensure the conflict’s resolution is also posted. It’s a great way to get a company to listen to you, but we must be fair and post a balanced opinion if the company does the right thing regardless of the peer pressure. Regards Andy
ReplyDeleteWith so many online media outlets, it can be tricky to manage cyber-smearing, especially if it's unwarranted. While many people are out there upholding a good moral character and looking up quality information, it only takes a person to write something inappropriate, true or false. I was recently reading online reviews about new technologies, and some people had something nice to say about it, while others refused to look at pro and solely focused on cons and gave very low star ratings. I suppose everyone should take people opinions online as a grain of salt, just like we do out int he real world.
ReplyDeleteAs with other aspects of the virtual world, blogging brings both pros and cons. I'm learning new lingo and cyber-smearing is a term I've never heard before. However, I've certainly known employees who did this via other outlets so I'm sure they would engage via blog as well.
ReplyDeleteScotty is a little doll and your blog looks great!
ReplyDeleteOur marketing department recently started to put blogs on FaceBook and Twitter. I don't know how successful they have been, I just know I had to unblock the sites on our firewall.
ReplyDeleteAll good points everyone.
ReplyDeleteAndy, thank you for that interesting angle. I agree if the company takes measures to correct the issue, we must be fair.
Lauren, true we have to take criticism with a grain of salt. Some people are never satisfied. Yet, we should make recognition when multiple complaints are made.
Shelly, With the new technology age, new terms are created. Cyber-smearing is new to me also.
Thanks for the Scotty comment. He is my hero!
Jeffrey, I have seen blogs on FB. I am not a Twitter user, however, but I would believe that as well. A friend of mine posts a blog on FB about sewing. It's actually interesting to read.
You have done a great job reporting on blogging ethics and moderating your posts - bringing it all together with a concluding statement.
ReplyDeleteYou don't have to go far from home to see the damage people have done by presenting false information about others on the Internet. It can be very hurtful and even fatal for teenagers who have issues with self-esteem.
Thanks for writing about it!