The internet can be dangerous for children, especially if they do not understand the potential risks involved. There is easy access to inappropriate material and therefore minors must be taught how to protect themselves, especially when using e-mail, social network sites or chat-rooms. Read on for some tips on keeping your children safe online.
It is important for parents to know what their children are using the internet for at all times. One way to do this is by having your computer in an open room. Parents should also discuss the dangers of the internet with their children and advise them to raise any concerns with them.
Possible topics to discuss are the importance of not disclosing confidential information, never agreeing to meet in person with anyone they meet online, not to provide photos of themselves, spending money on the internet can only be done with parental consent and unknown files can contain viruses and should not be opened.
Remember that young children are subject to errors when they type. A simple spelling mistake can bring up inappropriate search results. Sit with your child when they use search engines to ensure that this does not happen.
It is advisable to purchase special software that blocks sites deemed to be inappropriate. You can set up filters from your internet service provider or monitor your child's internet use manually. A system also exists where all sites visited over a month are sent to a mentor to review. If you bookmark frequently visited sites, you minimize the risk of your child mistyping addresses. Discuss having a joint parent-child e-mail account.
Speak to your children's teachers and confirm that they are advocating safe internet use. Check on the computer access at your children's extra-curricular activities.
If at any point a parent is concerned that their child may be in danger, the local police can be contacted.
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