Eluding Internet Predators

According to a survey by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, only 1 in 4 youth who received a sexual solicitation online reported the incident to an adult.

• Keep usernames and profiles generic and anonymous - Discuss your child's online screen name (s), profile (s), and activities.  Many provide too much personal information.  Ensure all screen names and profiles are non-specific and purposely vague.
• Avoid posting personal photos - Pictures can be altered to embarrass or humiliate.  They also provide personal information that can help an Internet predator to pretend to know you, your children, and/or their friends.
• Always keep private information private - With just three pieces of personal information, specialized Internet search engines can be used to locate someone anywhere. Internet conversations should never include any personal information.
• Keep the computer in an open area - A responsible adult should always accompany minors while they access the Internet to provide support and direction should they be confronted with an aggressive solicitation or inappropriate materials.
• Respect children's privacy - Respect your child's privacy but make certain they know personally everyone on their e-mail "buddy" list. Work to generate parent-child trust that supports open and honest Internet use.
• Be part of your child's online experience - It can be a fun journey to explore the wonders of the Internet as a family. As computer-savvy as kids and teens are today they will certainly teach you a thing or two!

This information was provided by i-SAFE. The United States Congress has designated i-SAFE America Inc, a non-profit Internet safety foundation, to bring Internet safety education and awareness to the youth of this country. Founded in 1998, i-SAFE is a proactive prevention-oriented Internet safety awareness program.

For more information go to www.i-SAFE.com