For what it's worth

[Luke Allen]

I've noticed a recent trend on several of NINGs sites, related to education and/or ed tech. It seems profiles are being created for "members" whose educational connections are dubious, at best. Some are promoting ways to make money from the use of various web sites, while others are promoting a service that will "help" you with all your dissertation needs.

I would advise people to be on the lookout for these "members" and take care not to accept their friend requests. Some NINGS actively try to keep them out by requiring approval of all new members. ICE is doing that, but many others don't. As with all social networking, a little caution goes a long way.

BTW, here are a few of the names I've come across that fall into this "suspect" category: www.makemoneywith-google.com, Edna Cohen, Marilyn Willis, Rose Tyler, Cari T, Jen Thomas, Rose Tyler, Kelly Black. In fairness, if you are one of these people and believe your name doesn't belong on this list, feel free to contact me.

As I encounter more of these, I'll update the list. Hopefully it won't get too long before the practice ends.