The Web is a continuing string of phenomena that captured the public’s interest and exploded. An online auction site called eBay appeared about ten years ago. So did a search engine called Yahoo! A bit later, a site called Amazon began selling books.

The rest was history.

A recent explosion has taken place with MySpace. It’s not really a new concept, being able to create a profile site for free. But MySpace has hit a chord among the teenagers of the world, and has exploded into a social networking giant.

\In 1995, I wasn’t afraid to post my address and telephone number online. Since then, the dregs of society have made online information their primary source of finding new victims.

Young (and frequently naive) people post personal information at MySpace.

The result can be tragic.

That’s the issue being addressed by today’s Family First pick. It’s called Social Shield. Its mission is to help parents protect their children on social networks.

MySpace can be a fun place to visit. Properly used, it’s a great way for folks to gather together and exchange information.

It’s also a great place for pedophiles, identity thieves, and other forms of subhuman life to prey on individuals who tell a bit too much about themselves.

If you’re a parent with kids who visit MySpace or other social networking sites, you should visit this Family First pick out of self defense, and the defense of your children. It’s also good for everyone else who wants to know how to use social networking sites safely.

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[tags]ebay,yahoo,amazon,myspace,child safety,parent,social shield[/tags]