At work and home, the Internet is now part of daily life.

Emerging technologies like Web 2.0 and social networking sites are altering the ways we communicate and changing our ideas of privacy.

But the worldwide free-for-all does present serious risks, including identity theft, cyber-bullying and criminals and sexual predators looking for victims to exploit.

Issues will be explored at a community forum at Maui Preparatory Academy at 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 26.

MPA, in conjunction with the FBI and Hawaii Association of College Admissions Counselors, will host the presentation “Digital Tattoos: Real Ethics in a Virtual World.”

FBI Agent Arnold La’anui will discuss the changes and dangers that young people and adults face from emerging technologies and social media.

“Digital Tattoos” looks at the culture of branding and examines how modern tools create permanent marks in virtual space that can have lasting effects on one’s future.

In other words, your spring break photos on Facebook are funny now, but would you want college admissions staff or a potential employer to see them?

Special Agent La’anui’s investigative career began in the FBI’s Violent Crime/Major Offender Program, where he served for eight years as a member of the FBI’s SWAT Team.

He has led federal investigations in a variety of violations, including bank robbery, juvenile prostitution, serial homicide, police corruption, narcotics, labor racketeering, computer hacking and child pornography.

A vocal proponent of digital ethics, Special Agent La’anui has made numerous radio and television appearances and annually instructs thousands throughout the United States. He contributed to the book “Hands-On Ethical Hacking and Network Defense” and helped develop the Internet Safety Awards.

“Digital Tattoos” has been presented to both schools and communities throughout the state to excellent reviews.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Maui Preparatory Academy at 665-9966 or Keenan Reader directly at kreader@mauiprep.org.