Stopping Online Predators

Computers are now so small that it is easy to have more than one in the house. Quite probably, several members of a family will have their own computer.. If your child has access to their own or a family computer it’s important they know how to use it safely.

Teenagers in particular value their privacy so removing some of this could be a big issue. If teenagers are given freedom to use the computer in the way they want, they won’t always consider their safety. As parents we do everything we can to protect our children and this has to include teaching them how to use the computer safely.

Are there any simple ways to protect your children when they are on the internet?? here are five tips to help you make the time your children spend on the internet safer.

1. Talk with your children. This is one of the best methods to defend your child against online child predators. By being honest and open with your child you can create a sense of trust. Let your children know how the internet can be dangerous and why you’re imposing some rules for their protection. Occasionally your child will break the rules. Don’t panic. Just remind them of why you have imposed your rules.

2. Keep computers where they can be seen by you. It’s much more difficult to monitor your child’s use of the computer if it’s in their bedroom and the door is closed. If it’s in a common area it’s much easier for you to glance at what they are seeing as you walk by. You can insist that if your children want to use a computer in their bedroom they must keep the bedroom door open. This rule on its own is probably enough to deter most children from watching something they know they shouldn’t.

3. Software is available for you to be able to control what your children can do on the computer. Children of all ages have the knowledge to access the internet from a computer these days. The controls you set up with the available software will prevent them accessing adult and porn sites. You can also use install software that such as McGruff Safeguard, ContentBarrier X4, and KaZipster to monitor their time online and prevent the sending, and/or receiving, of explicit material and personal information.

4.Explain to your children why they should not send  personal information to others. Your child may be used to having to give some personal informationin order to join a social networking site or to take part in online competitions. Online predators may have created a website so that they can get personal information from children and your child should be aware of this. Teach your children to consult with you before they complete any online forms which ask for personal information such as address or school name.

5. Use software to filter email accounts. Pornography or other child-unfriendly messages can be sent by email anonymously. Block all but your chidrens’ friends’ email addresses to their address book. This will protect them from seeing messages or images they are too young to deal with.

The knowledge you can impart to your children about the dangers of being online, will have a great impact on their ability to protect themselves when they are offline too.

Make sure you know the answers to all the frequently asked questions about online predators and sign up for the free report at the top of the right column or here.