Be Careful of MySpace!
February 11th, 2008 | by Jen |As with many internet chatrooms these days, one can never be too careful. The same can be said of myspace where anyone can join under any name, and can supply whatever false information they like. In order to ensure you, your child or anyone you know is safe on myspace, you need to watch out for a couple of important rules:
Rule #1:
Don’t give out more information than is necessary:
Many sick people prey on internet chatrooms just waiting for those innocent souls who are looking to meet someone. Many times, unfortunately, the victims are teenagers, or even worse, children who get caught up with their new “friends”. These people may try contact you and may try to arrange a meeting where all sorts of horrible things can happen. It is a good idea not to post information that can lead to your whereabouts. Do not put your physical address anywhere on your page, nor your correct phone numbers. Pictures are another way some bad people can stalk you. If you have stated where the picture was taken and a date for it, they can track you, given only your name. Be careful, as there are many sickos out there who will do anything to track down a person they find “interesting”.
Rule 2:
Beware of people who pretend to be your friend
Some people are out for financial gain. They stalk members who are trusting and/or lonely and who really desire the company of others. These stalkers will try anything to get personal information out of a person just so they can get their hands on your money. NEVER give out any financial information including your credit card details, ATM card details, pin numbers, bank names, your date of birth. Any of these pieces of information can lead to someone “cleaning you out”.
So, in conclusion, when using myspace, or any chatroom for that matter, be weary of whom you are speaking to. It is very important to remember that personal information is kept secret in order to protect yourself from financial loss or even worse, physical harm.
Be safe!