We may think we’re playing it safe by having our kids at home on the computer where we can see them, but the dangers in cyberspace would shock you. To prevent a tragedy from happening, you must provide your kids with accurate safety information when using the computer.

A good privacy security and/or parental control software is essential for every computer in your home. You can prevent adult sites from being included in search results. Google’s SafeSearch function screens for sites that contain this type of information, then eliminates it from search results.

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You can modify your computer’s SafeSearch settings by clicking on the Preferences link to the right of the Google search box. Programs like Net Nanny and Cyber Patrol do a great job of filtering out explicit or unwanted material, but no program in perfect. There is no substitute for adult supervision.

Keeping your computer in a central place like the kitchen or living room will make it easier for you to keep an eye on your children’s activities. Know which sites your child visits regularly and post a list of unacceptable content close to the computer.

For older kids, designate certain times when they are allowed to use the computer so that you can monitor their activity. You can also check where your kids have been by looking at the browser history in the computer’s web browser menu.

To keep your kids safety, be vigilant about monitoring chat rooms and social sites like Facebook, Twitter and My Space. Adult content can find its way onto those pages very easily.

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One of the most important things you can do to empower your children about online safety issues is to talk to them. Establish guidelines about their use and encourage them to tell you if they encounter inappropriate material online. Chat rooms are fun places, but make sure you are aware of who your child is talking to and the nature of the conversations.

Do not allow private messaging or “whispering.” This is where predators lurk, so it’s best to keep chat room conversations in the “public” area. Repeatedly tell your child that they should never arrange to meet someone they have met online in real life.

By the time our kids reach their teenager years we assume that they know about internet security, but they could still indulge in behavior that’s dangerous. Being accepted by their peers and experimenting with the boundaries you’ve set is very important to this age group, so it’s especially important that you are vigilant about providing them with safety information.

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In addition to monitoring chat rooms and web sites, be very aware of people they are speaking to while online, and block online gambling sites. By being vigilant, you’ll ensure that your child is more secure online.

Written by: OSAblogger / Bill Wardell - Please Read Our Latest OSA eZine Edition

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