Keep your kids safe online

September 8, 2011

According to a study from the Kaiser Family Foundation, kids ages 8 to 18 spend over 7 ½ hours a day using an electronic device. Much of this time is spent online. Social networking sites, instant messaging, chat rooms, and blogs provide users with the opportunity to connect with one another and share information. Often this information can be accessed by strangers.

Because of the lack of face-to-face interaction, kids may feel safe and anonymous. They may confide in strangers. Additionally, they may forget that information intended for friends can be viewed by others. It is important for parents to talk with their children to make sure that they understand how to use the Internet safely.

Never use identifying information

• Use only a first name or nickname, rather than a full name.
• Never post addresses or phone numbers.
• Avoid listing information such as school names or mascots, or joining groups for students from a certain school.
• Avoid posting pictures that have school names, street signs, or other identifying information.
• Do not post specific dates or times of activities in a public forum. Social plans should be made privately.
• Be aware of information that others may be posting about you.

Use privacy settings

• Most web sites have privacy controls that can be set. These should be reviewed often – the sites are often updated and you may wish to change your selected settings.

Use a strong password that is difficult to guess

• Do not share your passwords with friends.
• Store your passwords in a safe location – do not leave them anywhere you would not leave the information they protect. Do not store them on your computer; this is the first place a criminal will look.
• Avoid logging in to any site that requires a password from a public computer. Here are some tips to follow if you must: www.microsoft.com/en-gb/security/online-privacy/public-pc.aspx.

Beware of third party applications

• These often access personal information.

Avoid connecting with people you don't know

• Predators can easily pretend to be someone else.
• Never meet with someone who you only met online.
• Parents should remind kids that such people are still considered strangers.
• Do not blog about emotions or feelings - predators look for children who are vulnerable.

Be mindful of what you post

• Even if a picture or post has been removed, it still could exist through someone who saved it on their computer, or in browser caches. Beware – once posted, you can never be sure something is truly removed.

Parents should know what sites kids are visiting

• Place the family computer in a high traffic area of the house.
• Remember that kids are using phones, pda's, game systems, and other devices to go online. Kids can't be constantly monitored, so it is important that they are educated about potential dangers.