Stupid MySpace Laws: Connecticut Noobs Step In

 By 
Pete Cashmore
 on 
Stupid MySpace Laws: Connecticut Noobs Step In
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If something bad happens, the obvious solution is to make a law against it. It doesn't matter if the law isn't enforceable: just make one regardless so the public thinks that you're actually doing something. Score 10 bonus points if your new law involves "protecting the children".

The latest state to blame the technology for a crime is Connecticut: a few days ago, a male MySpace user was sentenced to 14 years in jail for using MySpace to set up a sexual assault on an 11-year-old Connecticut girl. As a result, Connecticut legislators have unveiled a bill today that would require MySpace, Bebo, YouTube, Digg, hi5 and the rest to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent before signing up. Up to 20 US states are considering the same policy, which would fine social networks $5,000 for every user under 18 who signs up without parental permission. Social networks would also have to check whether the information provided about parents was legitimate.

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