Kids on Internet

How safe are you or your kids on the Internet? Today's kids and teens don't just "go" online, they "ARE" online via computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices. Though Internet access can provide a wealth of educational information and fun for kids and teens, Internet usage can also present safety concerns.

According to a survey commissioned by Cox Communications and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, teens have established a significant presence online:

  • 61% of 13-17 year-olds have a profile on a social network  and half include a picture of themselves
  • 71% reported receiving messages online from someone they don't know
  • 45% have been asked personal information by someone they don't know
  • And 40% reported that they'll usually reply and chat with that person

Additionally, of these same teens surveyed, 1/3 say that their parents know "very little" or "nothing" about what they do on the internet.

To see first hand how quickly someone can gather personal information online, watch this video clip on Tracking Teresa. Even though this teenager has tried not to reveal personal information online, she's left enough clues that she could find herself in danger.

What Can Parents Do:

  • Visit with your kids about the Internet, the websites they visit, and the friends they have online.
  • Set boundaries such as, when they can use the computer, how much time they can be online, how often they can use a cell phone or other electronic devices.
  • Move the computer to a more public area in the home, like the kitchen or family room.
  • Set up filters or parental controls on the computer and do random checks on the history of sites visited.

What Can Kids Do:

  • Visit with your parent, guardian, teacher, or other trusted adult about the Internet, websites, and friends you have online.
  • Set up rules with your parents for going online. 
  • Do not give out personal information such as your address, phone number, age, a picture, etc... without your parents' permission.
  • Tell your parents if you come across information that makes you uncomfortable.

For more tips on Internet Safety, Parent Action Steps, Family Contracts for Online Safety, and more.... please visit NetSmartz.org

ELO 5/23/2012