Information security and privacy in social media: The threat landscape

Information security and privacy are multi-faceted concepts, and earlier definitions of information security and privacy seem inadequate in the context of emerging technologies such as social media. Hence, this chapter presents an analysis of the concept of information security followed by a discussion of computer security, information security, network security, personal privacy, informational privacy, etc. Then the discussion narrows down to information security and privacy on Social Networking Sites (SNS) followed by an analysis of the consequences of information security and privacy breaches from individualistic and organizational perspectives. The lack of understanding of the complex nature of security and privacy issues are preventing businesses from gaining the full economic benefit, especially on SNS. Therefore, some solutions and recommendations are suggested towards the end of the chapter, including the need for a common legal framework. Finally, the chapter ends with suggestions for future research.