Internet Safety Tips - Parents

1. Build a solid, trusting relationship. Encourage your kids to share their technological experiences. An open line of communication is effective at preventing online victimization.
2. Initiate a discussion about privacy. Tell your kids that what they post, text, upload, or send is irretrievable. Any information they put out there can be distributed without their knowledge or permission.
3. Establish rules governing technology. Let your kids know you will be monitoring their activity online. Tell them up-front they should have no expectation of privacy. Ask what sites they visit and view any online profiles they have posted. Tell them when they are allowed to talk, text, and surf the Internet on their phone.
4. Keep the home computer visible. Prohibit use of computers in private areas of the house, such as bedrooms.
5. Share passwords. Make sure you know the password to every site your child visits.
6. Watch for danger signs warning of online predators. Become suspicious if your child is secretive or obsessive about being online, changes screens, turns off computer when you are nearby, or receives phone calls or mail from someone you don’t know.

Sources and Links:

10 Cybersecurity Tips: Small Businesses
National Institute of Standards and Technology:
Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cyber Security
Security Intelligence: 5 Star Security Program
PCI Security Standards - Quick Reference Guide