While online computer exploration opens a world of possibilities for young people, expanding their horizons and exposing them to different cultures and ways of life, they can be exposed to dangers as they explore the information highway. There are individuals who attempt to sexually exploit children through the use of online services and the Internet. The following is a list of helpful tips to protect your family:
1. Develop a trusting relationship with your child early
2. Keep the door of communication open
3. If you have reason to suspect your child is viewing inappropriate sites, do not overact – approach your son or daughter with respect
4. Add to online profiles that you monitor your child’s use of the Internet
5. Keep your computers in heavy traffic areas in your home
6. Know your children’s online friends
7. Use a pre-filtered Internet Service Provider (ISP) – check www.FilterReview.com for help
8. Check CDs, floppy and zip disks
9. Check History Files often
10. Spend time with your child as they surf the Internet
11. Ask your child to show you what IM (instant messaging) looks like
12. Spend time with your child online, and have them teach you about their favorite online destinations
13. Get to know and use the “Parental Controls” provided by your Internet Service Provider and/or blocking software
14. Always maintain access to your child’s online account, and randomly check his or her account
15. Teach your child about responsible use of the resources on the Internet
16. Find out what safeguards are used at your child’s school, the public library and at the homes of your child’s friends. These are all places, outside your supervision, where a child could encounter an on-line predator
17. Instruct your child NEVER to arrange face-to-face meetings with someone they met online and NOT to respond to messages or bulletin board postings that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent or harassing
18. Tell your child to NEVER give out identifying information such as name, address, school name or telephone number to people they don’t know
19. Explain to your child to NEVER post pictures of them on the Internet and let them know this has seriously harmed other children
20. Teach your child to come and get you when they access something on the Internet that makes them feel uncomfortable, no matter what it is
21. Teach your child that the Internet is a good source for educational, recreational and creative searches, but has intentional landmines placed that could hurt them
(http://www.nationalcoalition.org/internetporn/parenttips.html)