SOME FINAL THOUGHTS ON VLOGGING

Vlogging is a form of communication - it's a chance not only to be heard, but to get to know other like-minded people around the world. With a little bit of planning, a good sense of humor, and the ability to be yourself - the vlogging experience can expand your universe. At the same time, protect your privacy and your independence with a vengeance. While most people in the vlogging world are great, some are only out for trouble. In that way, it's just like the real world.

Recently, a popular young vlogger found his home address posted on a public site by a mean-spirited viewer a continent away, who offered the information to other vloggers worldwide via Twitter. How did he track down the vlogger's personal information? The vlogger made two mistakes. First, he freely offered his full name on his YouTube channel and various websites. Second, he maintained a website with public registration. If you establish a website, you must provide a contact address to complete the registration. Most people use their actual home address, but it's possible, through your internet provider, to register your website through a service that protects your private information - including your address. This vlogger didn't take that step, and as a result, the viewer could have put him at risk for stalking by anyone who might have come across the information. Fortunately, the information was quickly taken down - but it doesn't' take much imagination to understand how it all could have gone wrong.

If you decide to vlog - have fun, protect your privacy like you're a celebrity, and - most importantly - let us know!