How to Promote Internet Safety

Internet safety can be taught at school and at home.

According to Indiana University's Security Office, "The Internet has a dark side, and most people are completely unaware of the pitfalls which come with this relatively new and fascinating online world." Malicious software infections, software that tracks and spies on your online movements, viruses and worms are just a few online dangers. Predators can also present themselves via email, in chat rooms and on social networking sites. Promotion of safe Internet practices can be encouraged at many ages. According to "Cybersafety in the Classroom," teachers of K-12 students are increasingly seeing the need to teach safe Internet practices at all grades.

Instructions

At Home

1. Knowing how to protect your family from potential Internet dangers means being aware of them yourself. Educate yourself about the dangers of the Internet and about social networking sites. Stay up to date with your education, as trends change quickly.

2. Discuss Internet safety with your children.

3. Set boundaries for Internet use. This can include the amount of time spent on a computer or it can mean using filtering software to block certain sites.

4. Keep the lines of communication open. Encourage children to tell you when they have a bad feeling about a website or someone they meet online.

In School

1. Discuss with the school board, teachers and parents the importance of Internet safety. Consider making an Internet safety plan part of school policy.

2. Educate teachers about current Internet trends, uses and dangers. Teaching safe Internet practices requires some knowledge of said trends and dangers.

3. Ensure librarians and computer lab administrators can teach safe Internet practices. Provide them with the support and tools they need. This can include utilizing an online safety resource, many of which exist, to supplement the education.

4. Encourage all teachers to incorporate safe Internet practices into their lesson plans.

Protecting Against Malicious Software

1. Consider investing in security-related software. Virus protection, anti-spyware and firewall software are three examples.

2. Keep your system and security programs updated.

3. Talk to your service provider about securing your wireless or modem connection points.

Tips & Warnings

• Rapidly changing sites and threats mean educators need to stay up to date and aware of current trends. This may mean taking part in social networking sites themselves.

• Be careful using filtering software, as it is not infallible and can limit the amount of positive information available.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Indiana University Security Office: Guides for Everyone