MySpace has been the centre of much debate regarding the issue of cyber bullying in recent times. In response to this, on February 9 MySpace Australia launched a new code of conduct titled ‘Untag, Block, Delete’. As the title suggests, MySpace recommends that users untag, block and delete any members that participate in cyber bullying. The question that is on the lips of all concerned parents is: will a code of conduct be enough to stop cyber harassment? It is unlikely that a code of conduct will be sufficient to combat such a widespread problem, however it is a good starting point. This is because whilst MySpace has features which are inbuilt into its system to minimize the instances of cyber bullying, a code of conduct addresses the issue of what constitutes cyber bullying. Thus, young people can become more proactive in addressing antisocial online behaviour.
The Code of Conduct
MySpace in conjunction with Girlfriend magazine and Boost mobile recommends that users untag, block and delete users that:
- Send threatening messages, emails or texts.
- Harass or threaten the people in my network.
- Tamper with or otherwise alter another person’s online profile/blog/email with the specific intent to damage their reputation.
- Pressure me to give out personal and private information, with the intent to disseminate it to others.
- Post images, videos, or text that is seen to be offensive, whether on their own profile or the profile of others.
- Post images or videos (doctored or otherwise) with the purpose of degrading others.
- Film or photograph people without their knowledge or consent with the intent of making it public to humiliate those involved.
- Spread rumours or false information about others online or via text message.
- Mask or identify or adopt someone elses identity with the intent to humiliate, intimidate or harass.
- Forward false information or offensive or humiliating images, videos or text, even if they didn’t create the original content.
- Stand by and watch any of these things go on without acting!
Source: http://www.myspace.com/girlfriendmagazine
This code of conduct supports the inbuilt privacy features within MySpace such as “blocking” unwanted users, hiding one’s online status, customizing profiles so that only friends can view your profile and the ability to report instances of cyber harassment. In addressing the issue of what constitutes cyber harassment MySpace is sending out a very clear message that such antisocial behavior is not to be tolerated. As the MySpace website suggests, it is not merely wrong, it is criminal. In addition, try to use clean and standard compliant MySpace Layouts. We recommend www.MyspaceMaster.net
Whilst a code of conduct is a good first step much more needs to be done to address the issue. Firstly, this is because general guidelines are unenforceable and at best merely advisory. Secondly, these guidelines do little to help parents intervene to support their kids. At the end of the day, the new MySpace Code of Conduct is merely a guideline and a much more wide encompassing strategy is needed to tackle the issue of cyber harassment.
