Internet safety is a major issue in itself but more so when it involves children. Children obviously can derive much benefit from being online within reasonable limits. However, parents should not underestimate the risks involved in allowing children access to the Internet.
Lurking Dangers
If adults supposed to be with minds of their own are still susceptible to fraud, deceit, and harassment, how much more the children? Children are still in the stage of developing their own definition of right and wrong that it is difficult for them to say no to an adult who is supposed to know the right thing to do. Children, no matter how self-knowing and confident they act are still children that need the guidance and protection of their parents or other adults responsible for them.
The Internet world is an especially dangerous place where so many forms of risks are present. Cyberbullies, online predators, identity thieves, and proponents of racism, self-harm, hate, and pornography are just waiting for the next gullible and “weak” person to victimize. These undesirable characters in the Internet will find out personal information and use that information against the person being attacked. Their actions usually intend to instill fear and shame on their victim so that they can coerce the victims into doing what they want.
What to Teach Children about Internet Safety
Children need to reminded of some important points:
1. Teach your children to keep their passwords safe and never to share it with others aside from family and some other people who need to know.
2. Teach them the importance of telling a responsible adult specifically the parents about incidents of harassment, bullying, sexual solicitation, and hateful messages. They should also be taught how to block online communication from people sending them.
3. Teach them the wisdom and safety of not responding to any spam or unidentified emails which can only divulge their personal information to the online predator.
4. Teach them the value of parental supervision in keeping them safe online early on so that they will not be antagonized with the parents’ advice on proper online conduct later on.
5. Teach them to conduct themselves appropriately online and never to give in to whim or force in uploading photos of themselves that puts them in a bad light.
6. Teach them not to post personal information online such as full name, address, school, and others that would give undesirable strangers undue advantage over them.
7. Finally, teach them the fact that what is uploaded online can never really be fully taken back so they need to be very careful.
About the Author:
Barret Hudson is a professional blogger who provides news and information on legal topics. She writes for Musca Law Sex Crime Defense, where you can find the best Florida federal sex crimes defense attorney to fight your case.