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Internet users warned to be wary of social networking websites

Posting private information on social networking sites such as Facebook and Bebo can leave you exposed to online threats or identity theft, Australians have been warned.

The government has sought to counter the growing threat from cyber crime by advising internet users to make their online security a priority and has issued tips on this, reports ABC Science.

Among the tips are keeping sensitive information such as addresses and phone numbers away from public eyes online and an awareness of dangers posed by online threats.

"There are obviously some privacy risks, including identity theft, also obviously not being able to effectively control who has access to that information that people post online," said Attorney-General Rob Hulls.

"Facebook users, social networking users need to realise that information and photos they put into cyberspace in some cases can be seen by others and can leave a digital tattoo that can be very difficult to erase."

Online security expert Sophos, recently issued a warning stating that cyber criminals are exploiting the popular Wall section of Facebook to expose users to online threats and malicious virus infections.

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