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Step 1
Tell your kids to let you know when any person, service or website asks them to provide personal information like their name, address or phone number. Although they may want to win the chance to get free concert tickets, a new video game console or compact discs, for example, show them how many of these "opportunities" may simply be a way for someone to take their money, steal their identify or upload a virus onto their computer.
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Step 2
Study your email inbox (or your child's if he has his own email address) to check for any messages that may indicate that he's being contacted by someone mining for personal information or even your credit card number. Advise him to only participate in contests and giveaway opportunities run by well-known television networks or radio stations and to avoid those that present themselves through unsolicited emails or pop-up ads, for example.
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Step 3
Be wary of charitable organizations that contact your kids instead of you to ask for a donation. Scammers may target kind-hearted kids that will selflessly donate their allowance or savings. Investigate each charity through a group like the Better Business Bureau to ensure it's legitimate (see Resources).
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Step 4
Make your kids aware of the types of online scams and tactics that predators use to lure children into dangerous situations. If you still suspect that they're engaging in unsafe Internet activity, consider installing a filter or activity monitor to restrict or secure problem areas.
