Google have just launched Google Sidewiki which uses a browser sidebar to allow visitors to post and read comments about the web page  they are viewing.

Sounds like a great idea, people can visit your web site and leave comments to let those that follow see what they think about you, your opinions or even comment about the way you look.

Unfortunately comments left on sidewiki cannot be moderated, at least not by you which to my mind leaves the whole system open to abuse.

Let’s be honest the world is full of creepy people, deviats, those with malicious intent  and the downright insane but Google is giving those people the freedom to visit your website and leave comments that cannot be moderated by you.

Oh and I didn’t mention the spammers, I would suggest right now spammers who peddle porn, Viagra and the like are licking their lips at the possibilities sidewiki is presenting to them.

So how will sidewiki effect you?

Well if you have worked hard developing your online personal brand, Google have given anyone the ability to attach graffiti to your brand.

Here’s how it works.

1. Download the Google Toolbar (It works with IE and Firefox)

2. Make sure sidewiki is activated.

3. Visit any webpage.

4. Click open sidewiki

5. Post your comment.

Now anyone using the Google Toolbar can see what you have written, good or bad.

To my mind the whole system in it’s current format is open to abuse, web site owners cannot opt in or opt out of the system nor moderate the comments.

Right now I’m saying to myself  ”Google what are you thinking of.”  I’m sure they have a plan for sidewiki that will leave all parties happy but in it’s current format it’s wide open to abuse and will cause real stress for many business owners.