Safety Tips

Internet Safety

The internet has become an important tool in today's society. Most families have a computer in their house and use it on a daily basis. The internet can be a good resource for information and a good way for people to communicate. The internet can be used for research, to conduct business, shop and many other things. It is important for people to protect themselves on the internet just like they would in person. People need to make sure that they keep their identity private. Parents need to make sure that they educate their children about internet use and internet safety. If you receive a hostile or inappropriate email, do not respond to it. Children may run across information or people on the internet that they do not know how to handle. It is important for parents to talk to their children about how to handle those situations. Parents need to set a good example for their children. Adults need to use caution when using the internet as well. Many people now use the internet to pay bills, shop and conduct their banking online. It is important to keep your password private and secure. Also make sure to use secure websites and shop with companies that you know.

Why does the Internet pose such a danger to children?

The Internet has provided some wonderful opportunities for our children. Never before have they had access to such a powerful tool for conducting school research, learning about new things, finding new recreation and entertainment, and communicating with their friends both around the corner and around the globe.

As a parent, you've probably thought at some point that your children know more about the Internet than you do. And to a degree, you're right. Growing up with the technology, children sometimes adapt to the Internet much more rapidly than adults. But having experience with the computer and the Internet is not the same thing as having experience in life. Children are all the more threatened online because they often lack understanding of the motives and intentions of others, and do not realize the danger in which they may place themselves and their families by giving away personal information about themselves.

Children have a rich private life away from adults, and in some ways that can be a good thing. But the key to protecting your child online is to stay involved in their use of the Internet, and to be aware of their online activities. Children need to be granted some responsibility in order to develop, and the Internet is no exception. But just as you wouldn't send your children into a strange city all by themselves, you shouldn't leave them online without parental guidance. Encourage your children to tell you about any online experience that scares or upsets them.

Additional websites for more information: 

OnGuardOnline.gov
IKeepSafe.org
ConnectSafely.org
NetSmartz.org
StaySafeOnline.org
WiredSafety.org
Cyberbully.org