Internet Safety for Parents
Ryan Cusack 4/06

The digital age has changed how children and adults interact. Social networking sites such as Myspace, Xanga, LiveJournal and Facebook have drawn concern from many parents. I am going to break down, rather briefly, the different types of sites and their functionality. We also have a few links that further explain how to keep yourself and your children safe on the Internet.

Blogging - Web logging has been around for quite a while. The popularity of it has grown tremendously with the advent of sites such as LiveJournal and Blogger. A "blog" is simply an online journal. Internet users ranging in age from 12 to 82 are prominent bloggers. There are even politicians and Fortune 500 executives that blog. While harmless in nature, the information that is bound to appear in a blog can compromise safety for your family. Think of your child's blog as a diary. They are going to talk about friends at school, the newest boy or girl they "like", disagreements between parents and schoolyard rumors. Instead of discouraging "blogging" or journaling, encourage your child to do it safely. Some material that should be strictly forbidden is the use of last names, addresses, school names, phone numbers, dates of birth (month and day are acceptable), social security numbers and other detailed information that common sense would shake its head at.

Social Networking - MySpace and Facebook have offered youths and adults alike, the opportunity to meet and talk with new people they never would have the opportunity to do so at a library or city park. Netizens from foreign countries or other states may open your family member's eyes to the outside world. Again, do not discourage learning about different cultures and ways of life. Instead, encourage positive actions and safe behavior. MySpace originated as a way for small bands to get their music out to the world. Other users could request to be added as "friends" to the group. The website's popularity has skyrocketed, and now all groups and ages of users can be found. Facebook is meant for college-aged users and as such requires an e-mail account from a college or university for registration. Once logged into the website, you can link up with other college friends and join "groups." The groups range from identifying your collegiate major to your favorite sports club. Facebook, along with every other website I've discussed, has the option to add some very descriptive information about the user's life. Counsel your children or family members on common sense and safe practices.

Instant Messaging, Text Messaging and E-mail - The Internet has the amazing power of anonymity. I could tell you right now that I'm a 20-something male when I'm actually a teenage female. The power of "IM", texting and e-mail however cannot be over looked. Major corporations use it daily to keep track of projects. Families use it everyday to plan get-togethers or who is letting the dog out after work. Have a family talk about the dangers of the Internet and how to protect yourselves.

I have only begun to describe the dangers and positive influences that can be found in the often-confusing world of the Internet. Other websites have some great resources to help you translate the technology jargon and connect with your child in a positive manner. Check the links below for some more great information.

Wired News - A MySpace Cheat Sheet for Parents

Wired Safety.com - A group of Internet companies dedicated to Internet safety.

www.BlogSafety.com

Social Networking and Blogging websites:

www.myspace.com
www.xanga.com
www.livejournal.com
www.facebook.com
www.blogger.com

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