Mobile Phones: Cameras and Business Don't Mix

File this story under stupid. A man leaves his mobile phone at McDonald's and is now suing the fast food giant because someone posted photos from said phone on the Internet. Of course if that was all there was it would be an invasion of privacy, but of course those included photos of the man’s wife... yes, in the nude. News Oxy reports that it gets worse; the couple’s address and phone numbers were posted as well. McDonald's of course maintains it doesn’t know how the photos got online.

Obviously, whoever posted the photos certainly invaded the privacy of the couple -- if in fact this story is legitimate. It is a little suspicious that a phone would be left behind, especially one containing nude photos.

But regardless of whether this is hoax/scam to cash in, or was a legitimate case of poor judgment and an unfortunate chain of events, what is certain is that this should serve as a warning that mobile phones and business might not always mix. Having a mobile phone with a camera is handy if you need to snap a quick pic for business, such as photographing a document when a copier isn’t around. As we’ve reported there are even some great tools that can transform a mobile camera into a scanner.

But that same camera phone shouldn’t come out during drinks with co-workers unless everyone is in agreement. Just because you have a camera for every moment doesn’t mean it should be used. And more importantly, if you have a phone for business try to limit the personal type photos you have on it.

While an image of your baby or pet might be fine, it would be embarrassing if you have a more intimate photo and suddenly need to hand in the phone (such as for repair or if you were suddenly terminated). So heed the advice, snap with caution. Taking inappropriate photos on a mobile phone can lead to more inappropriate situations!