Internet Security

I visited with my mother about internet safety, and it was great! My dad already knows quite a bit about the subject so I chose to talk with my mom and fill her in on the issues. I don't remember when the internet really became part of my life, but I became familiar with it as a kid. When I hit my teenage years my parents did everything right in terms of internet security and safety. They had the computer out in the living room where everyone could see, they set time limits, had passwords for access, and so on. However, I don't think they really knew about some of the things we have been discussing as a class.

My mother knew about not giving away important numbers like social security or credit card numbers. However, she didn't realize that kids can publish so much about themselves today. I talked with her about how kids should not give away their age, address, full name, school, or schedule. We also talked about being careful about what pictures are posted. I taught her about cyber bullies, stalkers, creating a new "life" online, pornography, sexual harassment, and other things that are dangerous with unrestricted and unmonitored internet use.

Some things that can be done for safety, without getting paranoid, are setting time restrictions for internet use, bookmarking favorite websites for quick access, using search engines that are safe, and educating kids about the dangers out there. Also, there are great resources for parents. I found some websites that can help parents below.


The FBI compiled a list of situations and solutions for parents.

FBI INFO ON INTERNET SAFETY


This website has resources for parents, such as instructional videos on how to do just about everything (basics to very advanced)for safety and security, and detailed information on the dangers of unchecked internet use.

GetNetWise PARENT RESOURECES


These resources are a great start in the quest to use the internet for its great wealth of information safely and securely.