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Privacy And Security Issues When Using MySpace
MySpace provides fairly secure environment for its members even though the potential for breach of security and privacy exists like in all online communities. But MySpace members can ensure the highest possible security levels by being conversant with its terms of service and also using the security features provided in MySpace.
Understanding the Terms of Service (TOS)
The terms of service of MySpace provide guidelines regarding what contents and activities are prohibited by MySpace. Understanding them well would ensure better compliance of its provisions. While MySpace administration does not specifically monitor the content, it investigates and takes action against erring members against whom complaints have been lodged for violating the terms of service. The action may include removing members’ account and also legal steps if necessary. The privacy policy of MySpace is also incorporated into the TOS and hence any violation of the latter also violates the privacy policy. Prospective members should thoroughly familiarize with the TOS in order avoid causing any unpleasant situations to themselves and to others. By checking the ‘I agree’ button while becoming MySpace member, all members are legally bound by the provisions of the terms of service of MySpace.
Protecting members of MySpace
MySpace offers limited protection to members’ privacy. General precautions that one must follow while accessing any site in the internet also applies while accessing MySpace. These include not disclosing sensitive information like social security number, credit card number, address and the like on discussion boards, online forums and the like where public viewing of the same is possible. The same should be followed in the MySpace profile also. The information posted on MySpace may not only be viewed by intended online community members but is also likely to be secretly viewed by others who are trying to do sneak in all the time. They may try to harvest information about other members with the intention of misusing it. Hence members must be cautious while posting personal information on their MySpace websites.
Keeping MySpace profiles private
One of the security features that MySpace offers to its members is maintaining the profile of its members private if the member so desires. This prevents public viewing of the member’s profile by members as well as nonmembers and access will be limited to members of the online community to which he/she is a member. MySpace members also have the choice to remove or block members from the friends’ list. This may be necessary when someone posts malicious comments on the website regarding another member. Blocking from sending instant messages or emails is also possible when another member sends harassing or threatening messages, for example. It would prevent him/her from contacting the member in the future.
