Recently, the Rocklin High yearbook identity was stolen and used to make a joke about a certain faculty member, Mr. John Thompson. Those who participated in sharing a picture of Thompson with an alcohol bottle he had confiscated from a student fail to see the seriousness of doing something so reckless.

As it has become known, it was a class of 2013 alum who posted the picture, who later apologized saying it was just a “prank.” What this student does not realize, is that in the digital-era posting something casting someone in a false light is illegal and Mr. Thompson could actually file a civil lawsuit against them and most likely win.

Although some fault is in Rocklin’s security for not changing the password annually, that does not make what this student did acceptable. In the worst case scenario, that picture posted on a highly visited Instagram profile could have damaged Thompson’s career.

As administration discusses punishments for the alum, one thing is clear, this student has damaged their own reputation in the long run. The frightening reality of the internet is that what you do online follows you for the rest of your life. Perhaps to the student it was just a joke, but they will not be laughing when they apply for jobs in the future.

Students and parents alike were appalled by the post and very few found it funny. It is childish to shed someone in a false light, and quite frankly it is rude and immature. If we learn anything from this fiasco I hope students appreciate the warning this student sent throughout the campus-do not post harmful images or words to the internet, it will follow you.