Common Sense Internet Safety

Virus software can guard your computer against incoming threats.

It is important to exercise caution on the Internet. You can avoid many problematic situations by becoming aware of the dangers and actively guarding yourself against them.

Dangers

USA.gov lists investment fraud, identity theft, phishing scams and spyware as prevalent examples of Internet fraud.

Implications for Children

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 1 in 7 children who use the Internet often are victims of sexual solicitation.

Prevention

You can reduce spyware and viruses by maintaining an updated firewall and a virus scanning program. Avoid giving out any personal information over the Internet.

Government Intervention

If you feel you have been the victim of an Internet crime, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

References

• USA.gov: Internet Fraud
• Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation: Internet Safety Tips
• Safekids.NE.gov: Statistics