Archive for 14/04/2008

Worries about use of social networking sites by pupils & students

Ofcom has expressed a concern about social networking sites and children’s use of them.  The report comes just a week after reports in most newspapers that universities and employers are using social network sites to vet applicants before offering a course or a job.

Ofcom likewise is worried about personal details on the site, although they focus on “abusers” rather than university admissions staff and employers.

Ofcom say that half of all internet users aged 8 to 11 had set up social network  pages.  27% the same group ignore age restrictions by lying about their ages.  (What a surprise!)

Ofcom also says many parents don’t concern themselves with internet issues, and 16% are unaware who can view their children’s profiles online.

The report also says some children are becoming so addicted to social networking that their time spent online is having an adverse affect on their education.

Tony Attwood

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