The Internet is a valuable resource for researching school reports, communicating with teachers, friends and family and playing fun interactive games. However, danger also accompanies use of the Internet. Internet searches can expose children to inappropriate websites, forums and chat rooms that sometimes put children at risk for exposure to Internet predators. To protect your child, you must make very important safety rules for computer and Internet use.
Never Share Personal Information
The KidsHealth website recommends that children do not share personal information or photographs over the Internet. Personal information, such as addresses, phone numbers, school name or location, may expose a child to Internet predators. Sharing photographs also puts the child at risk as Internet predators could easily identify a child from such photographs.
Report Uncomfortable Communication
Do not respond to messages that make you feel uncomfortable, recommends the FBI website. If someone writes in a threatening or otherwise uncomfortable manner, tell a parent immediately. Internet bullying and predators should be reported to the proper authorities immediately.
Avoid Meeting Online Friends
Do not meet someone or have someone visit you that you have met on the Internet without your parents' permission, advises the FBI website. An Internet predator often pretends to be someone he is not to gain access to children. Though someone online may say he is a 12-year-old girl, he may actually be a grown man. If you get permission from your parents to meet online friends your parents will be able to monitor the meeting and ensure your safety.
Do Not Steal Copyrighted Material
Much of the information available on the Internet is copyrighted and belongs to others. However, many illegal websites exist allowing users to download or otherwise copy computer programs, published writing and artwork for free, according to the United States Department of Justice. This activity is illegal and can result in criminal charges and fines.
Do Not Share Passwords
Keep passwords private, except from parents, advises the Family Online Safety Institute. If children share passwords with others information such as personal data is no longer private. However it is important that parents know the passwords to a child's Internet accounts, including email and social websites, so parents can monitor the information exchanged.
Be Respectful
Treat others as you wish to be treated. Although online activities are relatively anonymous it is important that children still treat others as they would like to be treated, recommends the Family Online Safety Institute. A child should use good manners, including good language and respect; not bully or pick fights; or use mean or threatening words.
Limit Screen Time
Agree to a limit on the amount of time spent on the computer and Internet. Although the Internet is a valuable resource, children should not spend extended amounts of time on the computer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children get no more than one or two hours of screen time per day. To effectively limit screen time, do not have a computer in your room.
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