Millions of children who use Internet social networking sites are exposing themselves to unnecessary risk by leaving personal details open for all to see, British communications watchdog Ofcom said on Wednesday.

It published research showing that 40 percent of children leave their privacy settings on “open”, despite warnings about the danger of putting personal details such as phone numbers and email addresses online.

The research found that many young children have by-passed age restrictions to publish their profile on sites like Bebo, MySpace and Facebook.

It said a half of all children, and a quarter of those aged 8-11, are registered with a social networking site.

Ofcom Director of Market Research James Thickett said parents should check the online profile their children are using.

“It is really advisable that your child’s profile is restricted to people that they know,” he told BBC radio.

“The problem is that there is a lack of awareness of the risks involved, especially among children.”

He said children not protecting their private information are exposing themselves to the risk of bullying or even to unwelcome approaches from strangers.

But he said that social networks do offer real benefits, provided the right precautions are taken.

“Children are on these social networking sites instead of watching TV or playing video games.

“For some children they can be a real confidence builder,” he said.

“They allow children to adopt a persona they might be too shy to adopt in the playground.”

LONDON (Reuters Life!)