The Internet can be a tremendous resource for families and
children. It can also be a source of danger - with
inappropriate content and dangerous people lurking just a
keystroke away. To keep your children safe, review
these important guidelines with them:
Never give out personal information, such as your name,
address or telephone number.
Don't create an online profile.
Never meet an online friend in person without getting
your parents' permission first.
Don't "instant message" or become email buddies with
strangers. These online "friends" may not be who they
say they are.
Tell your parents if you read or see anything that
makes you feel nervous, scared or uncomfortable.
Follow your family's rules regarding how much time can
be spent online. Set a timer.
Talk to parents about which sites you're visiting, who
you're chatting with, and what activities you're taking part
in online.
Obey family rules regarding off-limit sites.
These boundaries are set for your safety.
Compile your family's internet rules into an online safety
pledge, and have your children sign it. Post it near your
computer as a daily reminder for them.
Safe Web-Surfing Tips
Update Windows: Download and install
the latest service packs, patches and security updates for your
Windows operating system. Go to
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com to check for the latest
updates.
Install Antivirus Software: Protect your
computer from viruses, worms and trojan horses with antivirus
software such as
Symantec's Norton Internet Security 2005 or
download and install a
free antivirus such as
AVG Antivirus.
Install Spyware Detection Software:
Spyware can drain your computer's resources and slow your
internet connection. To combat these annoying files and
programs, download and install Lavasoft's free
Ad-aware or
give my personal favorite,
CounterSpy, a try.
Use a Firewall: A firewall is a
hardware and software buffer that allows only specific kinds of
data and information. For more information on firewalls,
check out
Microsoft's Internet Firewalls FAQ.
Ignore or Block Pop-up Ads:
Pop-up ads are those irritating ads and messages that pop up on
your screen whenever you're online. Clicking on these ads
can invite spyware to your computer. To help combat this
problem, try installing the free
Yahoo Toolbar with Pop-Up Blocker and Anti-Spy. If you
have Windows XP, the Windows XP Service Pack 2 includes a
pop-up blocker for Internet Explorer.
Increase your Internet Browser's Security:
Increasing your
Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator security level can
help to ward off circulating internet threats. Note that
doing so can cause some websites to work improperly.
Refrain from using Debit Cards:
Just in case something goes wrong and someone uses your number,
most credit card companies cover fraudulent charges or limit
your liability resulting from unauthorized use of your card.
Beware of using your bank debit card instead of a major credit
card. Should something go wrong, your bank account could be
drained of your funds, resulting in bounced checks/transactions!
