Is There Too Much Spam in Social Media?

Social networking used to be great technology that provided a way to connect with old friends, make new connections, and preserve memories. Then came spam and corporate involvement. The first big North American social network was MySpace, which introduced the concept of "adding friends." (something the largely-forgotten Friendster also popularized internationally.)

As Facebook became more popular and personable, MySpace lost a ton of users, but it wasn't just because of its interface. It was spam--tons and tons of spam--seemingly overtaking users' pages. MySpace was heavily criticized for its lack of spam defense and the social network has never recovered. Now current social networking giants Facebook and Twitter have a spam problem--and it's at the sites' control.

Corporations are purchasing ads, promoting tweets, with many people even buying Twitter followers to raise their stature. Privacy settings at times are rendered useless as you more than have to be careful what you "Like," or else it may show up in an ad. With Facebook buying out Instagram and becoming publicly traded, it remains a mystery just how private your information really is.

Keep in mind, Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks are still a great way to connect with friends and family, develop relationships, and even follow the latest news and trends from around the world in practically real time. And, at least for now, there are alternative social networks out there not as cluttered with spam or corporate ads, such as Pinterest and StumbleUpon.

Recently, entrepreneur Dalton Caldwell launched App.net, which allows you to social network without spam and corporate interference--for a fee of $50 to sign up. Something tells us not too many disgruntled social networkers will be lining up for that just yet . . .