I logged into my MySpace account and discovered an AMBER Alert located at the top, center of the dashboard. While it appears they deployed this system earlier this year, I’m glad to see it in action. I’m also pleased to see safety leveraging social media, instead of criticizing it.
MySpace’s Amber Alert Notice
AMBER Alerts have been around for a while, orginalliy created as a legacy to 9-year-old Amber Hagerman, who was kidnaped while riding her bike in Arlington, TX, and then was brutally murdered.Basically, it’s ideal for short-term notice of abducted children — an APB if you will, for everyone in specific localities.
Earlier this year, MySpace partnered with the Department of Justice’s AMBER Alert program, along side with NCMEC to deploy a service that notifies MySpace users — a over 231 Million people. I think it’s a great component for communication about these notices.
Also, I’m content with the other features added to the site as promised to 49 Attorney Generals to promote a safer experience for users. MySpace/FOX should at least disclose aggregate numbers on their reporting so government officials can keep tabs on their self-regulation and ask questions along the way.
