Zift Advisory
Facebook is a social networking app where users can connect with other people, public figures, and brands. Users can create public posts, send private messages, find local events, and join groups. Users must be 13 years of age or older to create an account. It is safe for mature teens, but privacy settings and good online behavior are encouraged.
What is Facebook?
Facebook is a social networking app where users can connect with other people, public figures, and brands. Users can create public posts, send private messages, find local events, and join groups.
The Facebook app can be downloaded for free from both the App Store and the Google Play Store. It features both in-app purchases and advertisements and is rated for users 12 years of age and older.
When users first download this app, they will be prompted to either log-in with their account or create one. Creating an account will require users to users to use their real name and an email address.
Facebook will ask to send you notifications, as well as use your location and have access to your contacts to connect you with friends.
Mobile users who are hoping to message with their friends will have to download the separate Messenger app to do so. Without the messenger app, users will still get message notifications but will not be able to view them without it.
In app purchases range in price from $1.99 to $19.99.
This app is well-reviewed in both app stores but some users do complain that the app can be slow or buggy. Keep in mind that since this app uses location tracking, it can use up battery life at a fast rate.
Is Facebook safe for my kids?
Facebook is safe for teenagers, ages 13 and older. Users must be at least thirteen years old in order to sign up for an account, and underage users will only be able to share status updates or content with confirmed friends. Parents may want to consider monitoring their kids' friends list.
The content encountered on Facebook is typically benign, depending on who a user connects with and what groups they join.
Facebook can be privacy risk for teenagers, who should be made aware of the responsibilities involved in maintaining personal privacy while online. Make sure your teen understands:
- What content you consider appropriate for them to access.
- How to engage safely with strangers in public forums.
- How to identify and navigate online communities.
- What content is and isn't appropriate to create or share.
Facebook has a direct messaging feature, Messenger and extensive privacy settings. The best way to keep your child safe on Facebook is to make sure their profile is set to private.
For more information about cyberbulling, check out our Cyberbullying Guide for Parents.
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