Parents need to know that this social networking site isn't great on privacy. First and last name and email address are required for registration, and they automatically appear on a user's public profile -- teens need to use the privacy controls to hide this info or restrict it to friends only.
Educational value:The site is a mix of useful info and silly stuff. The "services" section includes content on student loans and other school-related issues, plus a long list of Web sites that cover a range of topics. But there are also mindless games and activities like ranking the site's "hotties."
Positive messages:As with many social networking sites, most users are friendly, but a few are rude or inappropriate.
Violence:Some of the games sound violent (e.g. "Stalker," "Cock Fighting") but aren't.
Sex:Some users have "sexy" profile photos -- although none contain nudity -- and a few post explicit comments ("ooh my god u r very very sexy can you lick my penis").
Language:Some cursing (including the F word and its variants) in profiles and forums.
Consumerism:Lots of ads (including pop-up ads), sponsored content, and links to outside sites. Visitors can purchase promotional T-shirts and "homework help" answers.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:There are a few references to drinking and smoking pot in the forums, but nothing excessive. The resource center includes links to outside Web sites that offer help for substance abuse and addiction issues.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.