Internet Safety For Kids
Computers and the internet expose children to a whole new wonderful world.
Their education, social life, friends and networking capabilities are endless
with the incredible amount of information available to them. However, there
are dangers when exploring the information highway. There are numerous
faceless criminals who lurk behind their computers looking for targets. They
may be slow and quiet or fl amboyant and loud but all look to exploit innocent victims. Don’t let
your children become victims. Take steps to protect your family.
Rules for Parents:
For emergencies, call 911
◊ Only use the Internet when your parents say it’s OK.
◊ Use good manners and be polite when e-mailing and chatting.
◊ Always tell your parents about the people you meet or talk to on the Internet.
◊ Never give out personal information like: address, telephone number or school name.
◊ If you get a strange, mean or upsetting e-mail - Don’t answer it! Tell a parent or teacher.
◊ Never meet Internet “friends” without your parents.
◊ Talk with your parents about the sites you visit.
◊ Don’t send anyone pictures of you or your family.
Rules for Kids:
◊ Create and post clear, simple, easy-to-read rules on or near the monitor.
◊ Use safeguarding programs with monitoring or fi ltering capabilities.
◊ Child oriented web sites may not request personal information without a parent’s
permission.
◊ Explain to children what personal information is and why they should not give it out.
◊ Teach children that online “friends” are strangers and meeting them requires your
supervision.
◊ Keep the computer in the family room or open area of your home.
◊ Have children show you their favorite sites and what they can do online.
◊ Talk with children about makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.
◊ Report suspected online “stalking” or sexual exploitation to law-enforcement.
◊ Always read a site’s privacy policy before giving personal information.
◊ Verify a secure connection before giving credit-card information.
Education is key to prevention
The internet can be a dangerous place -
Protect your children
Know your child’s internet “friends”
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www.ci.lake-stevens.wa.us
cbrooks@ci.lake-stevens.wa.us
Lake Stevens Police Department
