MySpace has removed 200,000 profiles from its site in the last few months. The "objectionable" pages have been taken down for including hate speech or being too risqué.

News Corp internet division head Ross Levinsohn told press it was an internet problem rather than a feature of MySpace. The site contains thousands of profiles of individuals outlining their musical tastes and dating needs. It has also proved popular with school bullies setting up pages attacking their victims.

News Corp wants to smarten MySpace up to attract more advertisers and marketeers without alienating its users, who are attracted by its slightly anarchic feel. It is hoping to attract advertising from mainstream brands and is setting up an account team to help sell space across its internet properties.

More from the FT here. ®

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