NCJ Number
218226
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 74 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2007 Pages: 52-54
Date Published
March 2007
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes the various security measures for protecting the users of MySpace, an Internet Web site for teens that provides them a means of sharing information, images, music, and experiences.
Abstract
MySpace is an Internet portal for connecting with friends, discovering popular culture, and making a positive impact on the world. By integrating Web profiles, blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, music streaming, music videos, photo galleries, classified listings, events, groups, college communities, and member forums, MySpace has created a connected community. It is among the most widely used and highly regarded sites of its kind. Its global network includes sites in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, Germany, Australia, and Ireland. MySpace has four objectives in keeping teen users from victimization by predators who attempt to exploit them through the Web site. One aim is to protect users from other users with bad intentions. A second security objective is to protect teens from inappropriate content. A third objective is to empower teens to protect themselves and provide support to organizations dedicated to these goals. MySpace also aims to ensure that law enforcement has the tools and expertise required to bring criminal users of their site to justice. In order to provide and continually improve its security services, MySpace has created an experienced team dedicated solely to the development and implementation of safety policies and procedures. Based on analyses of security issues for users, MySpace continually offers users tips for protecting themselves and other users from victimization and unwanted experiences while using the site. MySpace also works with local police and investigators in monitoring user activity and identifying users who are attempting to exploit other users. The MySpace safety team interacts directly with law enforcement agencies in an effort to assist in investigations.