Social media is a tool.

If one is able to continuously evolve in the mechanics, accomplishments are limitless. The problem is, too many people use social media to expose their Achilles heel.

If you go out and have a few too many drinks, you could wind up a Facebook meme, or an embarrassing vine. Everybody has a smart phone and everyone is capable of making dumb decisions.

When you apply for a job, employers often check your social media. The same can be said for dating.  What kind of person does your social media represent? Could it be costing you a decent boyfriend or girlfriend? Could it be costing you money or a promotion at work?

Laremy Tunsil was a top-five NFL prospect just before the 2016 draft took place.

The Ole Miss left tackle lost more than $8 million when his Twitter account was hacked.

A video surfaced, where Tunsil was wearing a gas-mask bong, just minutes before the first pick was announced. While there was no evidence he was smoking marijuana, one could make their assumption. Tunsil slipped to the 13th pick, overall.

You may say it wasn’t his fault because he was hacked. However, it was his decision to do the act in the video.

Sitting behind a keyboard gives some people courage to say things they normally would not. Mix that with some liquid courage or herbal inebriation and you may post something you wish you hadn’t. Sure you can delete it when you wake up in the morning with a dry mouth and a throbbing headache, but what about all the people that took screen shots?

Nearly everyone uses social media. Remember it is a tool and can be used for good or bad. So, announce your engagement, accomplishment, etc., but put the phone down and turn off the computer if you are not in the right state of mind. Share common likes and bring people together, but remember what you put out in social media could very well come back to haunt you.

People with advanced computer skills can recover photos or posts, even if they have been deleted. Someone could use your image or your words on another website without your approval.  Voyeurism is real and hackers can use your social media posts for blackmail, kidnapping or even assault.

Safety is an issue to people when they are entering large groups. With terrorist attacks, up to date information can save lives. People tweeting about suspicious activity, loud noise and active shooters can detour potential victims. Friends may see the warning and call or text the person in danger.

On the other hand, social media allows you to see both sides of a current event debate. If you only hear one side of the story, it may be difficult to make an informed decision. People that hear from both sides have a more complete view.