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10 TIPS TO
KEEP YOUR CHILDREN SAFE ON THE INTERNET
The following
tips can help you ensure your children’s safety on the Internet:
1. Set guidelines for computer
use and have older children sign an Internet usage contract.
For example, see
www.protectkids.com/parentsafety/pledge.htm.
2. Keep the computer in an
open, common area such as a family room, as opposed to a bedroom or
basement.
3. Become familiar with the
Internet yourself and spend time online with your children.
4. Use blocking or filtering
software to shield children from harmful material online.
Many Internet service providers
(ISPs) offer blocking options with parental controls. You also can purchase
filtering programs that prevent children from accessing objectionable sites,
as well as programs that track children’s online activities. Search for
"Internet blocking software" for several options from which to choose.
5. Learn
about the Internet services your children use, sites they visit, and their
online friends.
Bookmark their favorite destinations so they’re easy to access. Occasionally
review their "history" to see where they’ve been, too.
6.
Instruct children never to give out personal information, passwords or
pictures on the Internet.
7. Monitor children’s e-mail
messages by either sharing an account with them or by frequently accessing
their accounts.
8. Tell children to
immediately report to you anything that makes them uncomfortable.
Report obscene messages
or images to the CyberTipline at the National Center for Missing and
Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678, or
www.cybertipline.com.
9. Make sure children do not
agree to meet an online acquaintance unless it’s in public and you’re
present.
10. Instruct children not to
enter chat rooms, buy products online, or download photos or links from
strangers.
—Stephanie Martin |
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