Facebook teams with CEOP for panic button

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A so-called panic button has finally been made available on Facebook as the service looks to become a safer place for the younger generation of users.

The social networking company had previously turned down the idea of implementing a panic button on a number of occasions, claiming such an option may not prove effective.

However, it now seems to have bowed to the pressure exerted by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP).

Primarily targeted at those aged between 13 and 18, the ClickCEOP button gives instant access to advice and help from CEOP.

It can be added or bookmarked to appear on the user’s homepage and clicking through will open up a world of online security information, as well as a facility to report cases of suspected grooming or improper sexual behaviour.

The service forms part of a new collaboration between CEOP and Facebook, which will combine the technological and communications expertise of the social networking giant and the online security knowledge of the child protection agency.

Adverts will now be posted across Facebook for the new service, with automatic messages appearing on every homepage of users aged between 13 and 18 asking them if they want to add the application.

“It is only through the constant and concerted effort of the industry, police, parents and young people themselves that we can all keep safe online – whether on Facebook or elsewhere,” said Joanna Shields, Facebook’s vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

James Brokenshire, minister for crime prevention, urged parents to get their children to download the application as soon as possible.

“While this solution provides real help, it’s also vital that government continue to work with industry, police and parents to educate children about the dangers they may face online,” he said.

No doubt Facebook is trying its hardest to improve its privacy reputation – something that has been under considerable scrutiny in the past year.

CEOP confirmed to IT PRO that it will continue to pressure other social networking services to add the ClickCEOP service.

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