Keeping Safe While Having Fun on MySpace

MySpace has established itself as an online community where young people can meet new people, build friendships and also hook up with others for the purposes of dating and romance. MySpace, which got its start in 2003, has become the foremost social networking site for teenagers and young adults over the Internet. MySpace has presently 75 million users worldwide and currently over 90 million profiles can be found at MySpace. MySpace has grown by leaps and bounds and has become known as the “second most visited website on the Internet.” As opposed to hanging out in shopping malls or coffee shops, teenagers are meeting online to share their thoughts and feelings, to discuss issues important to one another, to share pictures, videos and their favorite music as well as to make new friends, connect with friends they have lost touch with along the way and to make romantic connections.

MySpace offers many excellent opportunities for young people to express themselves to one another but unfortunately it also has its share of unscrupulous people who are looking to prey on those more vulnerable then themselves. The website lays out its rules in its terms and conditions section but the Internet is only capable of doing so much. For that reason it is important to do everything you can to stay safe while you are having fun at MySpace. Let’s take a look at some precautions you can take.

There are plenty of wolves in sheep’s clothing that use the Internet to find victims so when using MySpace for fun and enjoyment and to network with friends be careful what information you post on your private profile. Remember that everything you post is available for the general public to read at random, except if the profile you created remains private, which is rarely the case.

Don’t Publish Personal Information

Never include your full name on your MySpace profile or your physical and/or mailing address, your telephone number (home and cell), your date of birth and place of birth, or any information about your brothers or sisters, boyfriends, girlfriends, etc. As well never include on your profile your social security number, your credit card numbers, any information about your drivers license, or your bank account numbers. Some of these items may seem obvious but many people get carried away and divulge too much information to others at their MySpace profile and this runs them into problems. Never mention anything about where you went (or presently go) to high school or community college and do not mention where you work full time or part time. Also if you have a favorite hang out spot in your area keep this information to yourself. Remember that people who are up to no good could be reading your information just as easily as well meaning people could.

Understand the Rules

It is important to take the time to read and thoroughly understand the terms of service that MySpace provides for its members. This will clearly state as a member what rights you do and don’t have as well as what security features can be found at the site for your protection. Knowing these items makes you less vulnerable and better equip to deal with harassment if it happens to you. The terms of service will also make clear to members what rules they must follow and what action will be taken if the rules are broken.

Be Aware of the Dangers

Just like any other social online community if you meet a new person online who does not appeal to you or who seems suspicious in any way, politely extricate yourself from the situation and move on. Trust your instincts and exercise caution in all of your dealings at MySpace.