Facebook and Gangs Are Now Friends
In Ontario, authorities are looking into the emergence of the cyberthug.
In Ontario, authorities are looking into the emergence of the cyberthug.
Social networking is more than just a major time suck -- it's also a breeding ground for gangs.
On Thursday, lawmakers explored the problem with a state Assembly select committee hearing entitled "Gangs 2.0: The Emerging Threat of Cyberthugs."
"Social networking is a great way to reach out to others, update them on activities, exchange information and support a cause," said Assembly Majority Leader Alberto Torrico (D-Fremont). "Unfortunately, gangs are using these tools to communicate, recruit, issue threats, traffic narcotics, promote violence and expand their criminal activities."
Law enforcement, a gang intervention advocate and reps from "A Better L.A." were scheduled to address the committee.
According to Torrico's office, gang members are heavily involved on social networks, with a recent survey finding:
- 70 percent of gang members say it's easier to make friends online than in the real world
- 89 percent of students say they are the primary users of technology in the home
- 41 percent do not share with their parents where they go on the Internet
And while we don't have the data to back this up, we're assuming 100 percent of gang members play Farmville.
