Keeping Children Safe Online

The internet is a fantastic resource, both for learning and for entertainment but as my children get older and technology becomes more a part of their daily lives, I can’t help but be concerned about the things that they are potentially exposed to.  I know myself the kinds of search results Google can throw up and not being overly technically savvy myself, I’m always grateful that my husband is incredibly switched on in this department and protective parental controls are in full force in our house.

The National Cyber Security Alliance offer some really great advice on ways parents can navigate the internet safely with children.

Remain positively engaged: Pay attention to the online environments children use. Browse with them. Appreciate their interests and try to react constructively when they encounter inappropriate material.

Keep a clean machine: Protect all family computers with a security suite (anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall) that is set to update automatically.

Know the protection features of the websites and software your children use: All major Internet service providers have tools to help you manage young children’s online experience (e.g., selecting approved websites, monitoring the amount of time they spend online, or limiting the people who can contact them) and may have other security features, such as pop-up blockers. But remember that your home isn't the only place they can go online.

Review privacy settings: Look at the privacy settings available on social networking sites, phones, and other social tools children use. Decide together which settings provide the appropriate amount of protection for each child.

Teach critical thinking: Help your children identify safe, credible Web sites and other digital content, and be cautious about clicking on, downloading, posting, and uploading content.

Explain the implications: Help your children understand the public nature of the Internet and its risks as well as benefits. Be sure they know that any digital information they share, such as emails, photos, or videos, can easily be copied and pasted elsewhere, and is almost impossible to take back. Things that could damage their reputation, friendships, or future prospects should not be shared electronically.

Empower your children to handle issues: Your children may encounter online bullying, unwanted contact, or hurtful comments. Work with them on strategies for when problems arise, such as talking to a trusted adult, not retaliating, blocking the person.

Be aware of all the ways people connect to the Internet: Young people have many options to connect to the Internet beyond a home computer - Phones, tablets, gaming systems and even TV’s. Be aware of all the ways and devices (including what they do at friend’s houses) your children are using and be sure they know how to use them safely and responsibly.

Consider separate accounts on your computer: Most operating systems allow you to create a different account for each user. Separate accounts can lessen the chance that your child might accidentally access, modify or change settings. You can set up certain privileges for each account.

Know who to contact if you believe your child is in danger.  You can file a complaint with the website, ISP or mobile phone company.  Look for the “report abuse” button or contact customer care.  Follow up with the Guards is also an option.