Social networking websites such as Facebook and Bebo are growing in popularity with many New Zealanders now having a profile page. Users of social networking sites can create profile pages that include details such as age, hometown, job and hobbies. Friends are then added and emails and messages can be sent between individuals or groups. People can also post comments on other people’s pages and upload photos. There are also groups and discussion forums to join based on interests or location. Many people find social networking sites are a good way to keep in touch with old friends or make new ones.

Some websites, such as Linked In are for professional people who want to be contacted with job offers or connect with others in their field of employment.

The most popular social network site in the world is Facebook followed by MySpace. Bands and musicians often use MySpace as they can upload samples of their music. Bebo is also a commonly used website, especially for teenagers.

It is important to think about safety when putting personal information on a profile page or leaving comments on other people’s profile pages. Potential employers may use social networking sites to check out people they are thinking of hiring and young teenagers should not post too much information such as their phone number or where they go to school.

Contributed by Anita Jones