The Internet is an accommodating resource for kids researching school projects, playing games and joining social networking sites, but it also poses a threat to their safety. Pedophiles have been caught numerous times tricking kids into thinking they're a friendly kid with something in common, only to lure them into unhealthy and dangerous situations. Get involved with kids' Internet use to assure safe handling of such a wide array of information.
Discussion
Provide kids with an open attitude when talking about Internet use. Kids' privacy can be a delicate issue at times but they need to know their safety is the most important. Keep the computer in an open area, such as the living room or office rather, than in bedrooms and monitor the time they spend online. Bookmark favorite sites for easy access and stress the importance of reporting anything uncomfortable or weird.
Personal Information
Teach the importance of never giving out personal information. Valid game and social networking sites that require personal info for registration are held to strict guidelines from the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act that requires parental consent for any information of a minor. To register, kids must provide a parent's email, and the parent must sign in and agree to the terms of the site.
Safety Programs
Brush up on computer skills to understand how to block inappropriate content. Internet service providers offer parental controls and blockage of certain sites and software is also available for more intense precautions. Instruct kids on how to choose the highest safety settings when registering for websites; this will block any information exchanging between users. If need be, check the history to track visited sites and genuinely explain the importance of your concern.
Honest Warnings
Talk to kids honestly about the risks of online use. The FBI recommends telling kids bad people disguise themselves as kids to trick you into harmful situations. Stress the importance of never giving out personal information and never agreeing to meet anyone. Keep in mind some parents may not be as protective so beware of Internet use at friend's houses or other public places.
Suspicious Activity
If a child ever reports anything suspicious, take the time to research his concern and if it seems the least bit unusual, report it immediately to local law enforcement or contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Kids Health websitre suggests being aware of inappropriate Internet relations by watching for extended and late night use, strange phone calls or charges on the credit card, withdrawal from family and friends, and reluctance to discuss online use.
