What Parents Need to Know About Social Networking Websites

It is first important to know that social networking websites, especially MySpace and Facebook, are popular. Even if you think that your teenager isn't using them, they may be. This is because most high school and junior high school students think that social networking websites are "cool." In fact, these and other similar websites are hot topics that are discussed in many schools across the country.

As popular as social networking websites are, you and your child need to know that they can be dangerous. This doesn't, however, mean that you automatically have to ban your child from using them. As the parent, you have the right to control which websites your child visits, but knowledge is key. If your child knows the dangers that lurk on social networking websites, they are better able to protect themselves and use social networking websites as they were meant to be used, to easily and safely communicate with friends.

What you also need to know about social networking websites is that just about anyone can read what your child posts online. That is why children, typically those under the age of 18, should have their profiles set to private. This way, only those who are accepted as their friends can see what they have posted. Otherwise, your teenager daughter may innocently post a picture from last summer's pool party and a child predator could get the wrong impression or want to target your daughter just because of that otherwise innocent photo they were able to view.

The age requirement at Facebook is currently 13 and does NOT require the parent's permission. Facebook can be a great way to keep in touch with friends and family IF you set the guidelines and help your child set up their account so they are protected. One of the cardinal rules of internet safety is to NEVER give out your real name, email address, location, or photos... A Facebook profile asks for all of these, and then some! So it's imperative you work with your child to set the appropriate levels of privacy and security so they only share identifying information with people you and your child already know and trust.

It is highly recommended that the account is setup using an email account you and your child can both access so you are alerted to friend requests. It is also recommended that you "friend" your child on Facebook so you can view anything they post on their account - this alone should help restrain your child's antics when posting notes and photos. This will hopefully also discourage anyone else from posting inappropriate things on your child's message wall.

Internet predators have been known to target social networking websites. What is so concerning about this is that many teens and their parents don't realize that they are dealing with an internet predator until it is too late. Just because an internet user has a profile and pictures that make them look like a 15 year old boy or girl, it doesn't mean that they are the same age as your child. In fact, they could even be a registered sex offender.

It is also important to know that some social networking websites make it easy for your child's real identity to be discovered. This could lead to someone showing up at your door, stalking your child, sending them letters, or even calling your home. For example, MySpace posts your location online, which often includes your city and state. There is also a spot where your child can enter in what school they attend. Combine this with a picture and your teen can easily become a target.

Social networking websites can be dangerous, but that danger decreases when your child is aware of it. Ways that you can protect your child involve having them set all social networking profiles to private. Establish rules about accepting new online friends. You will also want to view your child's profile from time to time. Are any personal pictures or videos posted? If so, you may want to have your child remove them. Also, make sure that no personal information, including full name, address, phone number, and school name, is divulged.

Find out more about keeping your kids safe online with the informative tips and free video series from GamesAtGrandmas.com.

About The Author My name is Kristen, and as the mother of three children, I am concerned about keeping my children - and all children - safe on the internet. There are countless wonderful educational and entertaining sites online, but there are also many, many dangerous predators and cyber bullies looking for children to victimize. By teaching internet safety tips to children and their parents, I hope to help prevent children from becoming victims of internet predators. Along the way, they will also learn what to do to stop cyberbullying and how to protect their privacy online. http://GamesAtGrandmas.com.