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Internet Safety for Kids and Teens

If you a parent, chances are that your child or teen knows all about the Internet. Probably even more than you do? They use it on a daily basis for school projects and general research. It is without a doubt the СС information highway СТ. But parents also need to realize that there are many dangers involved when web surfing.

Chat rooms are especially something to be wary of. Anyone can fake their identity and pose as another teen to gain the trust of your child. Someone who may appear as a 13-year-old boy may in actuality be a 40-year-old man. Pedophiles frequent chat rooms looking for victims to lure into unsafe situations.

It is important as a parent or caregiver to become just as savvy as your teen when it comes to the Internet. Learn everything that you can about the web. Ask your child to show you all the cool places they like to frequent. The important thing to remember is to keep the lines of communication open so your child or teen will feel comfortable telling you if they encounter a problem. Keep in mind that your response will dictate whether they confide in you the next time a problem arises. It is important not to blame your child or take away their computer privileges.

Parents should also be aware of filtering programs that block out offensive or undesirable sites. Some even prevent users from entering certain types of information such as names and addresses. Many even restrict their ability to enter chat rooms or send or read email. The parent can configure many of these programs; to block the sites they may feel are inappropriate for their child.

Have a discussion with your child about what you will allow and what you will not allow while they are online. Try to be reasonable and remember how it felt when you were young. Finally instill in them certain rules to follow when it comes to Internet safety.

When instant messaging never give out personal information unless you are 100% sure of whom you are chatting with.
When in chat rooms never give out personal information such as names, home address or phone number, name of school or photographs.
Do not give out your password
When in chat rooms use names that are not gender specific this may prevent receiving pornographic material or harassment. If your child receives any pornographic material report it to the local Police Department.
Never meet anyone in person that you have been chatting with.
Never respond to email, chat comments that are hostile or inappropriate. Sending a response just encourages the harasser.
Be careful about newsgroups. If you respond to a post remember to keep your personal information private. Remember anyone can read the information. Newsgroups are a favourite place for people who send "spam". Remember anytime you post on a newsgroup you are leaving your email address.

Email safety

Do not open links from people you do not know
Never respond to emails with pornographic or offensive material
Do not respond to advertisements

Finally if you plan to use a filtering program please be advised that no filtering program can protect your kids from all the dangers on the World Wide Web. By getting your child or teenager to follow a few rules you can ensure that they have a positive web experience and help to safeguard them from possible harm.

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Internet Safety for Kids and Teens

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