'Safe' Social Networking Sites Emerge

Amid rising concerns over popular social networking sites, a new crop of "safe" sites is currently emerging. These "safe" sites hope to limit the dangers associate with other sties, such as talking to predators and revealing too much personal information. In addition, these safer sites aim to develop in users a proper online skill set--one that incorporates elements of online safety as well as proper behavior in virtual communities.

June 12, 2006—As concerns mount over the potential security risks posed by social-networking web sites such as MySpace, Friendster, and Facebook, a new generation of "safe" social networking sites is emerging. These new sites aim to capitalize on the enormous popularity of online social networking while at the same time providing a secure, educational platform for such activity.

So-called "safe" social networking sites, such as Whyville.net and Imbee.com, hope to limit the dangers that can accompany sites like MySpace, such as talking to internet predators and revealing too many personal details.