What’s the difference between MySpace and Facebook? In our opinion, the most important difference between the two can be summed up in one word: security.
MySpace is more or less an open-access site. Sure, you can block individual users from seeing your profile, but that’s about the most security the site offers. Anyone can search for you and see your profile, your pictures, and anything else you’ve posted.
Facebook does a much better job of keeping you private. You can adjust your “security” settings so that anyone can see your profile (like on MySpace), so that only people you approve can see your profile, and anything in between.
No matter which site you prefer, ValleyTeens has compiled a few suggestions for social networking:
1. Don’t post anything that you wouldn’t want your parents (or college admissions officers) to see. Even if you have Facebook’s top security settings, you never know who’s going to gain access to your profile.
2. Don’t give your personal information (including your address and phone number). A good rule of thumb is this: never post information that could in any way come back to haunt you…
3. Never meet in person someone you’ve met on the web, unless you bring along a parent or other adult. We don’t think that everyone on the web is out to get you (on the contrary, most people are great), but you still need to be smart.
4. Don’t take things personally. Sometimes, people can be cruel — especially from the safety of their computers — but there’s no reason to allow negativity in your life! If hurtful comments make their way into your online space, find a way to deal with them that is mature and thoughtful. Parents and school counselors can be good resources.
Here are a few sites that also deal with online safety and common-sense procedures:
