Norton Article Library

Introduction

You’ve probably heard of My Space or Friendster®. Chances are your kids have an account on one of these sites. But if you’re like most parents, you probably don’t know exactly how your kids use them. As a parent, it’s up to you to learn about these sites, engage your kids in dialogue, and agree on some rules.

Social networking basics

Most social networking sites offer the same basic features: a personal profile, a blog, and interactive “friend” lists.

• A personal profile is a Web page where you can post information about yourself. Typically, a profile is limited to your name, a picture, and some of your favorite activities and interests. It may also include links to your blog and to pictures and videos you’ve posted.
• Blogs are online journals. Some are topical, dedicated to a particular subject matter. Many kids use them more like traditional diaries, posting daily activities, thoughts, and feelings. Unlike diaries, blogs are meant to be shared.
• Friend Lists consist of those people you trust and wish to share extra information with. Users on your friend list usually have access to “private” information and the right to comment on your blog. Some kids have an extensive network of online friends.

Social networking accounts are easy to open. They’re generally free, and although most have age requirements, it’s next to impossible to verify a user’s age and identity. Many users are younger than the minimum age and some teens claim to be older on their profile.

Behavioral and security risks

Social networking sites can raise behavioral and security concerns.

Cyberbullying — Kids are willing to say things online that they wouldn’t face-to-face. Whether your children are on the sending or receiving end of these taunts, cyberbullying can entangle your kids in emotionally charged conflicts.

Illegal behavior — Some kids make claims with more serious consequences. Not understanding the legal implications of their actions, teens have been known to libel teachers and other adults they may have animosity toward.

Predators — Sadly, adults can use these sites to seek out children and teen victims. Scanning personal profiles for favorite hangouts, addresses, and school names, they can find the kind of information they need to stalk a child.

How do I keep my kids safe?

It’s possible to disable your child’s My Space account. You can also search the Web to find out what they post on their pages. However, your kids may feel you’ve broken trust with them—and it’s much too easy for your kids to open another account without your knowledge. Communication, trust building, and education are a more effective alternative.

Ask your kids to give you access to their profiles and blogs. Get their consent to let you review them from time to time—including their private areas. Then, encourage your kids to follow these basic rules.

• Don’t post information that could identify you or your location, including your last name, your school, where you live, or where you spend time.
• Use your site’s privacy features to limit personal posts to people you know and trust. Don’t add people to your trusted list unless you know exactly who they are. Remove “friends” who post mean, untrue, or compromising comments.
• Unless you can confirm exactly who they are, never agree to meet online friends in person. And even if you can confirm their identity, take precautions by meeting in a public, group setting.
• Don’t post suggestive pictures or images that might give strangers clues about your identity or location. These pictures compromise your security, and they may affect how relatives, employers, and admissions counselors perceive you.
• Monitor your blog comments for compromising information your friends may have added. Delete anything you don’t want people to see, and consider removing offending posters from your trusted list.
• Don’t lie about your age. Acting older than you are can put you in dangerous situations. If you don’t meet the age requirement, look for sites like Live Journal, which offer lower age requirements and a safer environment.
• What you say on your site may become public—even if you post it in a private area. Don’t use your account to spread rumors or disclose personal information about others. Your actions could have serious implications for you and your parents.

Conclusion

Online socializing has given kids a new and exciting way to interact with the world. It has also redefined traditional notions of privacy and behavior. Parents need to work with their kids to keep them safe and out of trouble.