Teaching our kids about Internet predators
Statistically, a large number of parents are unaware of the potential danger the Internet may pose for their children and especially their teens. In today's day and age, teens and even children are spending large amounts of time on the Internet. Because of this, there are more and more Internet predators on the prowl. It is vital that parents recognize the signs and dangers posed with those of an Internet predator.
What is an Internet predator?
Internet predators are commonly adults that use the Internet to lure teens and even children into dangerous situations such as sexually oriented conversations and activities. A typical characteristic of an Internet predator is:
First, to find and identify their victim through chat rooms. Chat rooms are basically sights that individuals can go to and have a live conversation via the Internet.
Second, from chat rooms the predator slowly makes their conversation more personal by instant messaging, then texting, phone conversation, and then finally face-to-face contact.
Third, Internet predators then try and create trust and friendship by portraying common interests or feelings. They will often side with their victim over arguments with parents, siblings, or friends. Internet predators may also begin to send lavish gifts or even offer to take their victims on expensive vacations. Often times, Internet predators begin sending their victims (and vice versa) pornographic pictures via their cell phone. This is known as "sexting' and is becoming an alarmingly common practice.
Parents Can Make a Difference
With more kids spending time on the Internet, the number of Internet predators has risen as well. Parents must be aware of the dangers that their children face. Parents must take control of the situation and establish rules of Internet use. One way to control the content and communication through the Internet is to place the computer their teens and children use in a commonly used area in the house.
By placing the computer in a high traffic area, parents can be more aware of what their teens and children are viewing with when they are corresponding. In addition, parents may also consider placing a lock on their computer in an effort to regulate the use of the Internet to the hours when parents will be at home.
As difficult as it may be, parents must speak openly to their teens and children about the hidden dangers that are associated with the Internet, namely chat rooms. They must warn their children to stay away from certain sights and always, always report any encounters or situations with others via the internet.
By being informed and aware, parents can help their teens and children avoid being victims of an Internet predator.
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