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SALT LAKE CITY -- Girl Scouts of America has partnered with Microsoft to create a new website aimed at keeping young girls safe online. Creators say the site packs in a lot of good advice, but in a way that makes it fun for the girls.
It's called LMK, which is "text speak" for "let me know." The site teaches girls about online bullying, predators and what to keep private while on social-networking sites.
"It's designed by teens, and it's learning how to protect yourself on the Internet. It's not tellyou you not to do it, it's telling you how to protect yourself," explained Vanessa Srivastava, of Girl Scout Troop 2254.
The group of Girl Scouts KSL News spoke with Friday was tackling the topic of the dangers of texting and driving. But the site changes daily, teaching kids a lot.
Vanessa says she has learned a lot about the U.S. Constitution and privacy laws. She's also learned a lot about the social-networking site Facebook.
"On Facebook I learned if you sent a message to someone, they can access your profile even if you're not friends," Vanessa said.
Maddie Rawlings, of Girl Scout Troop 361, said she's learned what she should and should not post online.
"Not to tell people important stuff on the Internet, like private stuff," Maddie said.
Girls Scouts of Utah CEO Elaine Pace said, "Technology is surrounding them. They need to know how to find the safe path through the forest, not to run away from it."
The girls like that it's designed by girls ages 13 to17, so they can relate to it more. Their parents like it because it's teaching their daughters important things.
The website is for everyone, not just Girls Scouts, and not just girls. You can check it out by CLICKING HERE.
E-mail: abutterfield@ksl.com
