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Here are the top 5 ways to keep your kids safe from Internet threats:

1. Start a conversation with your child

It’s important to have an open dialogue about risks online with your kids. Bring up the conversation
in relevant ways, tying in the topic to current events or TV specials. Try to get your children to
express their opinions, that way you can start an ongoing dialogue about Internet safety.

Talk to your kids about other topics too. If they feel a strong social bond with you, they may turn to
the computer less to cure their boredom or loneliness. Having an open line of communication can
inspire your children to approach you for advice and guidance.

Serious cat (source imgfave.com)

2. Create rules and guidelines

If your children are old enough, you do not want to
have to control every little thing they do. After all,
you don’t spend all day at school with them
dictating their choices. But similar to limiting what
toys you buy them, you can create boundaries
surrounding new software and video game
downloads. Question their motives when they ask
to download:

 File-sharing software
 Torrenting software
 Anonymous browsers
 Films or music that have yet to be released

This suggests they may be interested in doing
something illegal or risky. Additionally, set Internet
use limits if you feel that your kids spends too much time online. Create rules surrounding social
media, and how much of their personal information they are allowed to share on it.

3. Monitor your child online

Young children should never be on the Internet without adult supervision. Use these tips when
sitting down with your child to explore the web:

 Set all search engines to safesearch. You can even do this on sites such as Youtube, which
is a favorite among kids. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the safety box.
 Limit the apps and media on your phone and tablet. If your children use your devices, only
have what you wouldn’t mind your child accidentally coming across. If you have a Windows
phone, the Kid’s Corner feature can help you limit access to certain content on your device

18 Cyber Warnings E-Magazine – October 2015 Edition
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