We reported a little while ago the antics at Facebook and how they are deleting accounts without warning or reason.
Twitter is turning nofollow by, it seems, the request of Google. Now, Bebo is changing peoples profile name without warning or explanation. Andy Beal revealed today that his Bebo details had been changed.
Let this be a warning. Don’t ever rely 100% on your social networking profile for brand building. Bebo–and perhaps others–can and will change your profile without warning.
The common reason behind these moves appears to relate to social marketing and branding. If you can brand your user name, you will have a powerful marketing tool.
The time has come to tread warily when it comes to using social media as a branding tool. At least, as you’re major branding tool. Other avenues such as forums will have to be explored to build your brand.
Are social sites now coming of age and realizing it is time for a cull? Perhaps they feel they are removing the excess baggage and making the passenger lists a little quieter. Unfortunately, their actions are indiscriminate and target the innocent has well as the guilty.
