Technology and its advancements have a big impact on the human society, both in a positive and negative manner. Unfortunately, both the positive and the negative aspects come together as a package, so it is up to the society to take the best and leave the rest. One such technology that has created a lot of stir for its positive and negative impact during the last few years is social networking. Facebook, Twitter (News - Alert) and Google+ have offered enormous benefits to individuals and business. In many ways, it has transformed the society for good.

However, there are also problems that come with it. A prominent negativity of social networking is its use by young kids and teenagers. There have been many cases of abuse among kids who use social media because unknowingly, they post their private photos and details. There is also growing awareness of the deep impacts of cyberbullying.

The best way to get around this negative influence is by teaching children what is social networking and the dangers that come with it. This is exactly what is being done by DigitalMe. It is offering safe badges for children and teenagers after they complete a program called Safe Social Networking. This is a free program that is available for kids of all ages.

These badges are offered through the MakeWaves portal for schools. Any school wishing to introduce this program for their students can create a page on this site for free and complete the different activities that are created under this program. So far, about 5,000 students have been awarded these badges and many of them proudly display it on their social networking profile pages too. These badges can also be stored and used later as a part of their college admissions.

Such badges are a unique way to create awareness among students about the dangers of social networking. It is hoped that such innovative programs make technology safer for every user.