National Internet Statistics

 "The internet is like a knife. It's useful but it can cut you." quote from an actual internet victim, Netzsmart.com

Think Your Kids Are Safe Online?

MySpace, Xanga and Facebook are just a few of the popular Internet social sites that students use.  As these networking sites have grown, and users (your children) are sharing personal information, rare but alarming incidents have increased too.

Many parents are unaware of the dangers that their children face when using online social networks. Parents need to educate themselves so they can discuss the Internet with their children comfortably and confidently. Knowledge is our best defense when it comes to protecting your child.

Problems students have encountered with social networking sites:
     -use of the Internet to harrass or bully fellow classmates
     -students posting untruths or photos
     -sexual preditors posing themselves as teenagers

National Internet Safety Statistics-Cox Cable, March 2007
    -71% of teens 13-17 have a personal profile

    -48% of these are public and can be viewed by anyone

    -64% of teens 13-17 have posted photos of themselves

    -58% have posted information about the city in which they live

    -69% have received messages from a stranger

    -58% of teens feel the Internet is a safe place to share information

    -47% of 13-17 yr olds are not concerned about someone using information they've posted
 
Want to educate yourself more about how you can safeguard your child? Visit Netzsmart for how to talk to your child about keeping them safe.