Article
Building a Safer Profile
What's the hardest part of doing your homework? It's getting started, right? Well, the same thing is true with social networking. But don't worry! We've got a plan of action that will have you up-and-networking in no time.
Step 1: Start at the end. What's your goal for a social profile? Is it talking to old friends? Is it chatting with your real-life friends? Finding that long-lost friend from camp? Finding kids with similar interests? Playing games? Making friends? Changing the world? Think about why you're creating your profile before you actually create it. This will help you accomplish your goal much better and faster.
Step 2: What should you post? Now that you know what you want to do with your profile, you can figure out what you should post. If you're going to reconnect with kids from camp, then you need to post the name of the camp, your old bunk number or counselor name. You'll need to include the summer and session you were there and maybe a pic from the camp days. If you're using the site to promote your band, then make sure to include your band's name, pics, samples of your music, contact info, where you play, and references.
Step 3: What doesn't have to be posted? This is the most important part (at least when it comes to safety). If you're chatting with friends from school, you don't need to give out your address or phone number (they already have it). If you want to connect with your friends from your old neighborhood, then post a picture of yourself at that age ... not the sexy picture of you kissing your boyfriend. It not only works better for your purposes, it's safer too. The more you keep certain info separate (like keeping your BFF's pic in that new bikini off your job-hunting profile), and only available to the people who should have access to it, the safer you'll be.
Step 4: Build it! Now that you know what your goals are and what you should (and shouldn't) be posting, it's time to build this baby! As your building it, imagine your parents, teachers, college admissions agents, or potential employers looking over your shoulder. Anything you put on your profile, you'd better be prepared for them to look at. Nothing is ever really private online.
Step 5: Check it twice. Before you go ahead and share your profile with the world, give it another look. Are you okay with everything you've put on there? Have a friend with good judgment take a look too. Take your time. Make any changes you need before you go live. If in doubt, leave it off the profile.