Research: Ofcom Survey
2 April 2008 - Ofcom Survey Published
Communications watchdog, Ofcom published research today showing that 27% of eight to 11-year-olds, who have internet access, bypass online age restrictions to put their profiles online. The report also found that many parents and children lack awareness of the issues surrounding privacy and safety on the internet.
Ofcom said the websites could do more to remind people of the risks involved in putting all their details online. Almost half (49%) of eight to 17-year-olds now have a profile on a social networking site.
Following on from the Byron review last week, which stated that "Everyone has a role to play in empowering children to stay safe while they enjoy these new technologies", the Ofcom research highlights that there is still much to be done to protect children online. The Ofcom report is gaining widespread media coverage today, with stories appearing on the BBC, Radio 1 & Sky
A home office code of practice, due to be issued on Friday 4 April 2008, will offer recommendations for Social Networking websites.
Ofcom Key Findings
49% of children 8-17 have an online profile
22% of 16+ have an online profile
27% of 8 to 11-year-olds lie about their age on social networking sites
59% of 8 to 17-year-olds use social networks to make new friends
16% of parents do not know if their child's profile is visible to all
33% of parents say they set no rules for their children's use of social networks
43% of children say their parents set no rules for use of social networks
Source: Ofcom