Protecting Your Child From Online Sexual Predators

Written by Debbie Mahoney and Randy Hanna

Many parents are unaware of the potential dangers their children face when they go online. Child predators use internet chatrooms to lure children into meeting up. From there, your children could become victims of sexual abuse or physical harm.

If you have access to the internet in your home, it can be educational but don't assume it's a harmless "toy" or educational tool.   These computer safety tips can protect your child from becoming a victim of a child abuser / child molester.

First and foremost, don't assume the computer should be placed in a convenient  location for the child. Place the computer in an area that makes monitoring easy for you.

Sit down with your child prior to allowing access to the internet. Don't assume that they know they should never:

• Give out their name to anyone.
• Give your address or phone number.

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• Send or receive pictures.
• Give your's or their email address to anybody.
• Meet with anybody in a public place.

Parent's should keep checking to see what kind of activities are going on.

• There are computer programs that monitor your child's internet/computer usage.
• Children's "blocking" software is wonderful, but don't assume it will block all places where harm can come to your child.
• Pen pals for children can be fun, as well as beneficial, but don't assume because the profile of a chatter is a minor he/she is safe for your child to communicate with. Remember a profile is only as good as the poster who writes in the information.
• Monitor your child's computer use, and length of time online. Don't assume that after checking once that everything is okay.
• Your child's computer is like any other item they possess, but don't assume that you can't find out what they are accessing. Check their bookmarks, cache, or history. Learn to use the computer if you are going to allow them access.
• If you suspect someone is trying to lure or harm your child, don't assume there is nothing you can do. Notify the local law enforcement agency in your area and the local FBI office. It is a crime to lure children on the internet.
• Finally, education is the biggest tool in understanding what can happen on the internet. Don't assume that the dangers outweigh the good information that is available if we are knowledgeable enough to help our children attain it safely.

We are very proud that Microsoft has chosen to use our safety tips in their educational material mailings. These tips have gone to over 3000 teachers and 100 school districts throughout the U.S.

next: Overview of Pedophiles on the Web