"One of the biggest mistakes is parents not paying attention to what their kids are doing online," said Larry Magid, founder of Safekids.com, a website devoted to online safety tips for parents and kids. "Parents need to have discussions with their kids and warn them about the dangers. Talking to your kids is the most important thing."
Computer software such as filters that block certain websites, or monitoring programs that record Internet sites visited on the computer are options for parents looking to protect their child from online dangers. But they may not be right for every family, Magid said in a telephone interview from California.
While young children using the Internet should be protected by their parents, Magid said teenagers need to understand the consequences of their online actions.
"A lot of teenagers don't understand that what they put on the Internet can and will be seen by lots and lots of people, some of whom are not their friends," Magid said. "Statistically, if someone is going to get in trouble, it's teenage girls. And the only person who can protect your teen is your teen."
Over the past year, Alberta Children's Services have launched two websites and distributed a comic book to Grade 4 students in the hopes of getting the message out about online safety.
Jody Korchinski, spokeswoman for Alberta Children's Services said parents need to watch for signs that their children are being exploited over the Internet. "Some kids get lured into prostitution or sexual exploitation over the Internet," Korchinski said. "There are many things parents can and should be looking for."
Changes in behaviour, sleep patterns, appearance, grades and friends, along with unexplained expensive toys or clothing, are all warning signs, she said.
Korchinski said parents should be aware of "Internet lingo," and put the family computer in a visible spot, especially if the computer has a webcam.
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