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Last updated 8:51 am CT February 09, 2010.
Protection Against Cyber Crime
While your child is looking for cool websites, thousands of online predators are looking for their next victim...
"They think its anonymous, they think they can get away with it, where they're congregating, you name it, they'll find it."
Cyber crimes against children were just one of the topics at the Southern Illinois Cyber Crime Awareness Conference. Guest speaker, Mike Sullivan with the Illinois Attorney General's office, knows all about online predators. He spent more than 10 years chatting with them online while pretending to be an 11 year old girl.
"My wife has come to terms with that."
According to Sullivan, your child's address, phone number, or school is enough information to put them in harm's way. He says a predator can often find that information in less than six mouse clicks....
"Online predators' strongest weapon is secrecy. A parent's strongest weapon is communication."
That's why, Sullivan says, being a pro-active parent is the best way to protect your child.
"One motivated parent is more than a match for any online predator. Simple wording by your child of, "I have to check with Mom," or "I have to ask my Dad if I can do that," is gonna chase a predator away. There are enough unguarded children that they won't risk talking to one with an active parent."
Sullivan suggests you ask your children what they're doing on the computer. Sit down with them and view their favorite sites. Explain to them why the exchange of personal information is bad. But, most of all, open up a line of communication.
"If something makes them feel uncomfortable- tell mom- tell dad- tell a teacher- let them know that it's alright to report what's not good.
And, Sullivan says, if you want to keep that window of information open, as a parent, pick your battles.
"If your children come to you and tell you about things that make you upset, don't over react. The fact that your children are coming to you is a great thing."
Sullivan says filtering software can act as a good safety net when your children are online. He says you can find virtual parent software for less than $40 that you can customize to fit your family's needs.
By: Rachel Gartner
rgartner@wsiltv.com
Now: 1265727559
