Myspace - the Internet Gateway for Sexual Predators?

Most teenagers these days own a personal computer, or at least have access to one. At least 8/10 people have a 'Myspace'. There are a lot of different views about Myspace. But there are also a lot of myths about Myspace.

To start off, most people know what Myspace.com is, but for those who don't, Myspace is an online virtual community where friends can communicate through messages and comments. Pictures, music, and 'about me' sections can also be shared amongst friends.

One of the myths about Myspace is that sexual predators can communicate with underage children. Yes, I agree that this can happen, but not only does Myspace have high security, it also has 'Terms and Conditions' that is the user's responsibility to read, understand, and agree to. All Myspace users have the option to put their profile on 'private'. This means only your friends or people you accept can view your Myspace page. This is a 'personal call', because you as the Myspace user have the option to block or reject users, you as a Myspace user have to use appropriate judgment. Also, many Myspace users lie about their age, this is not Myspace's fault if someone goes online, talking to a person on Myspace, thinking that person is older than that person really is.

Also, another myth is that Myspace causes children to be abducted. This has nothing to do with Myspace! Myspace cannot control what children do when they are online, or who they talk to. I think this is a parent's responsibility to monitor what their children do online, and to control the level or access to the internet their children have.

Myspace isn't for ten year olds, because children ten years and younger are more likely to fall victims to sexual predators. They also might not be mature enough to handle Myspace.

Most critics overlook the benefits of Myspace. It gives teenagers something to do online. I agree with the statement that today's teenagers should be more active, and out side more. But Myspace is safer than a chat room, or a nasty website showing inappropriate pictures.

Another benefit of Myspace is that it lets you keep in contact with both friends and family. For example, I have family in New York, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and even as far Italy, Germany, and the Virgin Islands. It is much more cost effective for me to talk to them on Myspace, instead of calling them and paying international fees. Also, all of my friends go to many different schools. Although I have lost their contact numbers, I still enjoy catching up with them on Myspace.

In conclusion, Myspace is not as bad as news, critics, and parents make it out to be. Pay more attention to your children, that's who really is in control of what they do on Myspace.