'You haven't heard of Facebook?!' splutters my best mate, her jaw hanging open for an exaggerated 30 seconds. 'Well if you wanna keep in touch while I'm in Australia you better get on it.'

So it was this threat that began my love affair with Facebook. That was nearly four months ago. Four months since I answered the question on so many lips: what is Facebook?

No doubt I'm preaching to the converted, but, if you have resisted thus far; Facebook is a social network site, a bit like a web alternative to your address book, with pictures. You use it contact friends by writing on each other’s ‘wall’ or sending private messages or ‘gifts’.

With it’s record-breaking 31 million users worldwide, it can get your brain ticking (amid the bewildering requests from people you don’t know, or wish you didn't know, who want to be your friend).

Us cynics were waiting for the first news story… and we didn’t have to wait long. The BBC reminded us to be wary of Facebook and other social networks, and the horrors lurking therein….

…. University authorities at Oxford are reportedly using Facebook to try and uncover post exam pranks. Techy burglars are rubbing their hands with glee now that they can not only get your details, but also work out if you're at home. Bosses are checking future employees, and boy bands are being discovered - with ready-made fan bases thanks to Facebook and MySpace.

From small beginnings, Facebook seems to be taking over the social scene. This is the chosen way of millions.

Both the Baby Boomers and their children are both showing a distinct distrust of politicians, and anyone purporting to be an authority. The big thing for all of us is trust and control. And who else better to trust than your friends?

Which begs the question, what else can these social networks open themselves up to? How about fundraising on a big, big scale? It could mean opening doors to a whole different audience. A charity could have its own social network page, allowing people to give in a totally different way. The possibilities could be very very exciting – and member-get-member? Oooh don’t get me started.

Imogen Bielby