Internet Safety Programs

With the growing presence of the Internet, Internet safety is an important issue, especially among kids.

With the growing presence of the Internet, Internet safety is an important issue, especially among kids. The term "Internet safety" may be confused with Internet security, which deals with viruses and programs that could damage a computer. Internet safety refers to making the Internet safer. That means being sure that adults, law enforcement officials and children are aware of the many danger of the Internet. Many companies have come to the forefront of educating adults and kids on Internet safety.

CyberAngels

One of the most synonymous names related to Internet safety is CyberAngels. The Guardian Angels established CyberAngels in 1995 in an effort to deal with online threats. CyberAngels helps make people aware of issues, including Internet security, identity theft, cyber-bullying and identifying sexual predators. The CyberAngels website is full of useful information and has links devoted to help for parents, cyber security, school programs and a section just for kids. The CyberAngels learning center contains information on topics such as security, keeping children safe, terminology and computer troubleshooting. It also conducts school-based training that deal with protecting students from bullying, cyber-bullying and gangs. According to its official website, CyberAngels is also planning a program on additional Internet safety topics pertaining to schools and families, a section devoted entirely to teens and online programs for parents.

i-SAFE

i-SAFE Inc. is a nonprofit foundation established in 1998 and endorsed by the U.S. Congress. The purpose of this program is to educate students on how to avoid dangerous, inappropriate and unlawful online behavior. Most of its training and learning sessions take place in the school setting; however, it also features community programs as well. i-SAFE combines classroom curriculum with community outreach programs to enable students, teachers, parents and law enforcement to make the Internet a safer place. i-SAFE proclaims it has taught i-SAFE lessons to over 21 million students. Access to i-SAFE's safety programs require and subscription and license. The i-SAFE website has links dedicated to kids and teens, educators, law enforcement and parents; however, the information provided is vague. A subscription and license are required to have total access to the program.

McAfee

McAfee, an Internet security firm, has a 10 step Internet safety program geared toward laying out some basic Internet safety tips. This basic program is based on safety and has tips for parents on how to control their children on the Internet. The program also lists common dangers on the Internet as well as giving tips on how to recognize suspicious online behavior. In addition, the program gives tips on computer placement, choosing a password and password protection.

References

• CyberAngels
• i-SAFE
• McAfee