Starting recently MySpace rolled out a bunch of new rules - those over 18 can no longer request to be 15 or 16 year olds friends. Also, they can't see their full profiles unless they know their full name or email address.

There are clearly some loopholes here, but I'm glad that they are at least making an effort. I've also seen some PSA's and banner ads for the cybertipline, which filles my heart with joy. :D

What are everyone's thoughts on this, especially in light of those Dateline episodes?

(Here is a new article I found on online safety w/ regards to MySpace if anyone's interested:
http://www.charlotte.com/mld/charlotte/living/health/15059820.htm )

I think the parents need to be more aware of what their children are doing online. I know in our house, the computer is in a family area so we can keep an eye on what is going on. Just my thoughts. :D

I agree with both of you ladies. I am certain that computer use needs to be monitored. You should have respect for your children, but when it comes to the internet, it is a danger zone. Focus on the Family offers a program that monitors all computer activity. It would be a great investment. I went onto My Space just to see what it was like. It is a pedifiles dream. All that is missing are the childrens addresses. I know also that we shouldn't constantly worry and allow God to protect our children, but we can also continue to be concerned and cautious parents. [typing]

I've said it before and I'll say it again :D it really needs to be a concerted effort among parents to stay up on technology, among teachers to reinforce saftey and among kids to be smart and safe. Kids certainly seem to think they're invincible online and I've just seen too many news stories to the contrary.

Here's a link to the MySpace Parent's page - it has some good tips imo, and some other sites they partner with in addition to the tipline - some of them look great, even something you could go over with your kids, they seem to be geared for a range of ages.
http://www1.myspace.com/misc/tipsForParents.html