I don't think others can get your IP address off Myspace.
If one of your son's friends has his own website then it's possible to grab your IP address when he visits.
If you're asking about the site's safety...it's the same as any other social networking community...it's as safe as you make it. Some have called it a supermarket for predators...but then, so is your local mall.
Just use common sense...don't post information that can identify you...don't give out personal information to people you don't know...and heaven forbid,don't post anything that could come back and bite you in the butt 10 years down the road.
I'm sure others will add to this.

How old is your son? I'm not trying to scare you,but my space is nothing but predators for young teens.Someone close to me was involved with a guy she met on there and he had killed another girl he met from my space.
As far as computer issues goes,my space is a host for viruses and other annoying problems. I dont think anyone can get your IP address though.
If your son is under 18,I dont think it's a good idea for him to have the account.But,you are the parent~you can make the call.
Maybe you could monitor it now and then just to be sure.

Registering at places like that is exactly why you should have one or more web based email addresses. Yahoo, Gmail, Hotmail, any of those types will do just dandy. Your main email address should be for GOOD friends and family only. All others should use the web based address. Even registering here and at other sites I always use a throw away address. So far I have done well and have not had need to abandon an address but I still play safe - or as safe as II know how.

Thanks for the input so far. My son is 12. I haven't been impressed with what I have seen so far ,as far as content, but my main concern was access to my computer. I have an updated version of Norton with current updates installed. Does it make a difference if he registers as an under 18 user? There is a lot of spam or "friends" that pop up which have links to uncensored sites- which is why I asked about the under 18 thing. Please elaborate on how to use an alternate email address. Thank you again

The minimum age to register an account on MySpace is 14

So how did your son get registered?

He joined while over at a friend's house--and his friend is not 14 either. When we tried to change his age it just told us that the minimum age is 14, and nothing seemed to change. Don't get me wrong- I know when he is on MY computer because it's password protected, I am very careful about that. Plus I use history and personal supervision to watch him. I'll admit he slipped in under the radar. I use his password and check out myspace myself. I can say that I don't approve of anything I have seen so far. (Not to mention all of the garbage that comes with the website.) I have used your information and have a better handle on things. The jury is in deliberation on this one. I still welcome any comments so feel free to add.....

Obtaining a web based email address is quite simple Decide which one you like, go there and register. Due to the overwhelming popularity you will need to find an obscure name or add numerical digits to it. When you first select they will tell you if that is available, if it is not they will make suggestions built around your choice. You can use one of those or create another name and try. Repeat till you find an acceptable name. You will require a password obviously so only you or anyone you give the password to can access the address.

Then use only that address when you register anywhere on the internet, thus keeping you internet provider address safer for just family and friends.