| Internet Safety is Everyone's Issue EAP EAP Hotline Documents |
The ‘Web.’ the ‘Net’, ‘Cyberspace’, the ‘Net Phone’. Whatever it is called the internet is now the most
common means of exchanging information in the world. The internet is filled with a world of information
and resources, most of them positive, some of the negative. If you have access to the internet it is
important to know that there are several risks you and your family take when surfing the net.
Following are some things to be aware of the next time you connect to your favorite on-line site.
• Accidental Exposure to Inappropriate Material- While it may be shocking for adults to come
across unexpected porn sites, or hateful or violent scenes; for young children these sites can be
destructive. Make sure to monitor your child’s computer searches either directly or via a control that is
set up on your computer.
• Exposure to Predators- Children and adults need to be careful not to share too much personal
information over the internet. Predators may use the internet to “groom” their victims and acquire
information to physically contact them.
• Online Harassment and Bullying- Computers and cell phones are being used more and more to
leave belligerent, harassing or even threatening messages. If you or your children are receiving such
messages you may want to contact the authorities.
• Viruses and Hackers- Nearly everyone has experienced some form of computer virus. While
these can be frustrating, they can also enable hackers to access all of yours and your families’ personal
information. Make sure you work with a computer expert to keep your computer from being compromised.
• Legal and Financial- The internet is being used more and more for negative legal and financial
purposes. Identity theft, theft of credit cards, and unauthorized access to your personal bank and
retirement accounts are all becoming serious internet threats. Take precautions to protect your personal
information.
To protect your personal information you need to check the blocking, filtering and ratings systems for
your computer. Be sure that everyone who uses your computers knows how to use your computers
safely.
common means of exchanging information in the world. The internet is filled with a world of information
and resources, most of them positive, some of the negative. If you have access to the internet it is
important to know that there are several risks you and your family take when surfing the net.
Following are some things to be aware of the next time you connect to your favorite on-line site.
• Accidental Exposure to Inappropriate Material- While it may be shocking for adults to come
across unexpected porn sites, or hateful or violent scenes; for young children these sites can be
destructive. Make sure to monitor your child’s computer searches either directly or via a control that is
set up on your computer.
• Exposure to Predators- Children and adults need to be careful not to share too much personal
information over the internet. Predators may use the internet to “groom” their victims and acquire
information to physically contact them.
• Online Harassment and Bullying- Computers and cell phones are being used more and more to
leave belligerent, harassing or even threatening messages. If you or your children are receiving such
messages you may want to contact the authorities.
• Viruses and Hackers- Nearly everyone has experienced some form of computer virus. While
these can be frustrating, they can also enable hackers to access all of yours and your families’ personal
information. Make sure you work with a computer expert to keep your computer from being compromised.
• Legal and Financial- The internet is being used more and more for negative legal and financial
purposes. Identity theft, theft of credit cards, and unauthorized access to your personal bank and
retirement accounts are all becoming serious internet threats. Take precautions to protect your personal
information.
To protect your personal information you need to check the blocking, filtering and ratings systems for
your computer. Be sure that everyone who uses your computers knows how to use your computers
safely.
| For Further Information: Family Service Inc. (605)336-1974 800-589-1974 fsisd@msn.com |