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Teens Actually Do Protect Their Online Profiles
Thib writes "A study from the Pew Internet and American Life Project reveals that the majority of teens pay attention to what they are revealing about themselves in their online social profiles. For instance, while many routinely use their first name or include a picture, 'fewer than a third of teens with profiles use their last names, and a similar number include their e-mail addresses. Only 2 percent list their cell phone numbers.' The study comes to light just as state legislatures once again begin to mutter about the dangers of online predators. From the article: 'According to Pew, 45 percent of online teens do not have profiles at all, a figure that contradicts widespread perceptions that the nation's youths are continually on MySpace.'"
No, the online predator thing is not a problem. There might be a predator problem, but like bad patents, putting "online", or "computer" on the front does not change what it is. Before you worry about predators "online", you should ask yourself this...
If you had to choose, would you rather leave your child alone for the weekend with the internet, or with a Catholic priest?
Then ask your friends. What you will get is laughter. Why? Because we all know the answer, but are uncomfortable saying it. If you worried about little Sabastian, or little Samantha getting buggered by some old creepy dude, then the internet is just distracting YOU from your goal.