Cyber Safety

Do you know what your kids are doing online ? 

These are questions every parent should consider when giving their child access to any technology that connects to the internet. This includes mobile phones, tablet type computers, iPods and computers in all their forms.

Do you know what content they are viewing?
Do you know who they are talking to?
Do you know what arrangements they are making with the people they are talking to?
Do you feel they are safe?
 
 The internet is a wonderful, amazing place, but it can also be a dangerous one.
 Here are some ways to make sure your kids are safe online:
 
LOCATION OF DEVICE
 As a parent, I always look for the easiest way to make sure my kids are safe online.  Keeping their devices in the main traffic areas of the home is a simple way of making sure that a quick look over the shoulder can be done.  Generally, if kids are out in the main area of the home, they won't go to sites that they wouldn't want others in the home to know they are going to; or do anything online they wouldn't want others seeing.

 ACTIVE MONITORING
 Another way of helping to stop kids from visiting untoward sites is making them aware that you are checking their PC or device. Knowing all their passwords is the key here, with rules that if you don't know the password they don't get to use the device.

 SOFTWARE TOOLS
 There are some software tools that can help block sites you don't want your child having access to. There are also software tools that can be used by businesses to monitor what their employees are doing on company time with their computers. These tools can be used to keep your kids safe online.
 
The most effective (in my opinion) way to keep your kids safe online is to talk to them about what they are doing online. Teach them safe browsing habits. Guide them when you find them visiting a site that may be a problem. Talk to them about who they are talking to online.  Do they personally know everyone on their friend's list?  Are they sure that who they are talking to is who they say they are?  These are the types of discussions that should be had with your children to help make sure they are safe.
 Feel free to contact me if you need any advice / help in this area. With kids myself, it's an issue close to my own heart and one I am passionate about.  I would be happy to direct you to the many resources available to help keep your kids safe online.