Teens regularly use MySpace and Facebook to chat with "friends," share pictures and music, and meet new people, but these social networking giants aren't the only sites available. One popular social networking option is streaming Web video, which allows users to engage in group video chats and broadcast live videos, or webcasts, on the Internet using a webcam.

Sites like Stickam, BlogTV, and Justin.tv offer users free access to streaming video technology with little or no content restriction. One of the most popular sites for teens is called Stickam, short for "stick cam," which has approximately 2 million registered users. Although these sites have age restrictions (Stickam doesn't allow users under 14), teens can get around them by lying about their ages when signing up for an account. Users of these streaming video sites often display inappropriate content including nudity, sexual acts, sexual solicitation, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and foul language.

Maybe your teen would never purposefully watch something like that, but the fact is it's available. Video streaming sites have plenty of teenage users; 38% of Stickam's users are teens. Take some time to discuss responsible ways to use social networking sites and webcams with your teen this summer. Keep an eye out for what they are viewing, and remember --- it's always changing, so keep checking NetSmartz for the latest on Internet safety issues.

*Other services that provide streaming video include Ustream, Kyte.TV, Mogulus, Veodia, Operator 11, YouCams, and MyStreams.

*For a comprehensive evaluation of Stickam check out Common Sense Media.

If your child asks permission to meet someone offline, your initial reaction might be to say "No." For many concerned parents and guardians, the idea of allowing your child to meet offline with someone you've never met may conjure images of sex offenders and online predators. But what if your child wants to meet peers offline? Not everyone your child talks to online is dangerous. If your child wants to meet someone their own age in person and you feel comfortable with the idea, consider adopting these basic guidelines for your child's safety.

1. Make it clear to your child that they need your permission to meet a peer offline.
   
2. Tell your child that you or a trusted adult who you've approved will accompany them to the first meeting.
   
3. Get details about the friend your child is meeting, including their name and contact information.
   
4. Meet in a public place and stay with your child. Get to know your child's friend so you'll feel more comfortable letting them meet again.
   
5. If your child is accompanied by another trusted adult, arrange a check-in time and, if possible, have your child carry a cell phone for emergencies.
   

Make sure they know that these guidelines only apply to meeting peers offline, not adults. Take the time to discuss with your child why you are using these rules—not to embarrass them, but for their safety and your peace of mind. And keep in mind that people your child talks to online may not be who they say they are!

NetSmartz Blog Special!!

As part of the NetSmartz mission to educate, engage, and empower, we have invited our teen interns Colin, Katherine, and Kelly to give parents the inside scoop on what they and their peers think about the Internet. Over the next few weeks check back on Fridays to read the teens' opinions on everything from social networking sites to the latest tech trends!