Child / Youth Internet Safety

Did You Know?

  • 23% of youths surveyed have reported to have formed close friendships with persons met online - 7% of those offered assistance to run away
  • 70% of cybersex incidents occurred while the youths were at home - 49% of these youths did not tell anyone, even when the incident became aggressive
  • 74% of youths use the Internet at home and 73% use the Internet at school
  • A 15 year old boy came across a bestiality site while researching to write a report about wolves for school
  • An 11 year old boy and friend where searching for game sites, when they typed in fun.com, a pornographic site appeared
  • Each year, approximately one in five children is sexually solicited online
  • Only 2% of these incidents were reported to police
  • Over two million 10 year olds use the Internet regularly
  • Unwanted solicitations can be done by using cell phones, personal digital assistants, and even video game consoles

What You Can Do

  • Check the history function for sites that have been visited
  • Keep the computer in a room that is occupied by all members of the family
  • Limit time spent on the computer
  • Look at the screen to see what your child is viewing
  • Report all inappropriate material
  • Tell your child:
    • Do not chat with strangers
    • Do not give out address / telephone / school information or any private information
    • Do not make arrangements to meet anyone you met online
    • Do not say anything on the Internet that should not be said in public
  • Use Internet parental controls

 Helpful Resources