Myspace.com and other similar web sites have been in the news a lot lately. The reason that they are in the news is because kids get on these web sites and are able to post lots of personal information, and anyone can get access to that information. You may encounter argumentative teens asking, “What is the big deal mom?” or “What is the big deal dad? I'm just putting a little bit of information out there.”
The problem is this. First of all, when kids start to put information on Myspace, they are often doing so with peers standing over their shoulder or in the same room; their friends will encourage them to put more and more information there.
Secondly, teens are at an age where they trust the people that are on the other end of the computer more than they really should. There is some good research that suggests that kids are very trusting of strangers online when there is no good reason for that.
Finally, kids are at an age where they’re willing to take risks. You can talk to them about this, but they don't see the risk in the same way that you do.
So what is the bottom line? When it comes to Myspace.com and similar web sites, you just have to say no.
Myspace.com and other interactive community web sites have received negative publicity lately due to the fact that predators prey on naive children with personal profiles. Dr. Randy Cale tells us how to keep tabs on your kids' online activities and away from Myspace.
It is unhealthy and potentially dangerous for kids under the age of 18. You can probably even argue it is dangerous for kids from the age of 18 to 21 because anyone can get access to this information.
Certainly there are ways on these web sites to limit that information, but most kids don't do that. They put the information on there with the purpose of getting out. Now just because you say no to your child, does that mean they are going to honor it if they are over at their friends house? Of course not, so you need to monitor their activity. Every 2 -3 months get online and search for your child's name, address, and cell phone. You can also try searching for their nickname, school name, and best friend’s name. Do a search on Google. Go to Myspace, and do a search, and see if you find anything. If you do, then you can take action. Otherwise, you just won't know for sure.
So, if you follow that simple guideline and stay on top of things, you can keep your kids safe.