Mediaboss Marketing

Here's a look at potential safeguards that companies may put in place in light of recent cases of alleged abuse and rape in youth-centric online communities.

Social networks catering to adolescents have a serious trust issue -- and justifiably so.

Location-based flirting app Skout and teen social-networking game Habbo were hit by reports that adults allegedly used their services to sexually prey on underage users, causing both sites to temporarily restrict access this week.

The incidents serve as a reminder of the potential risks that arise when a minor logs on to any social network, an issue that has gotten even more scrutiny with Facebook looking to possibly open its doors to users under 13. More importantly, it reinforces the notion that no network is truly safe, no matter the technology safeguards that are put in place.

"You can never know completely that the person at the other end of the conversation is a kid," she said.

Nevertheless, Skout and Habbo have quickly shifted into damage-control mode with attempts to reassure users and the media that it will improve the protection that it offers to its users. Both companies have said they are trying to upgrade their security measures, moderators, and technology.

Paul LaFontaine, CEO of Habbo parent company Sulake, did not respond to questions, but did post on the company blog, indicating that the company is working to "ensure that best-in-class moderation and detection systems are in place to create a safer and improved experience for our many responsible users."

Skout, likewise, has said it would look into upgrading its safeguards and take additional steps to protect its users.

Age limits One protective measure is age limits, which Skout has said it would look into for its community. But the measure has long been debated within the industry, particularly because it's usually ineffective.

"It's a huge problem. In most case, it really doesn't work," said Chris Babel, CEO of TRUSTe, a company that helps online companies address privacy concerns.

See the original post:
Can social networks protect your kids?