Ensuring our Children’s Safety While Connected

Currently, 40% of the world’s population has access to the Internet. As a result of this technological revolution, we have immediate, 24/7, access to national and international events, educational data, music streaming services, video, and much more. On the other hand, the Internet is also a medium used by many for nefarious and illegal activities. In the past, criminals used this technology to steal financial, private, and in some cases national security information. According to the Cyber Defense magazine, cybercrime is something that can wait for us just behind the corner and cause us a lot of nightmares and worries1. It’s not any longer about a computer or data breach, but rather about the true financial, political or military harm. However, the illegal activity does not stop there; sexual predators have discovered “semi-secure” ways to prey on the young and vulnerable. Most of us have heard stories about children and teenagers in a position of vulnerability or even danger through the Internet, either from instigation by adults that want to take advantage, or simply exposure to violent or other inappropriate content. Taking into consideration the millions of minors that use the Internet daily, this is an extremely important topic.

The Journal of Adolescent Health reported that sex offenders used social media 82% of the time to target minors. This alarming statistic can hit any household due to the prevalent accessibility of the Internet. At the same time, the number of high profile incidents can obscure the fact that the Internet offers a myriad of positive resources for both adults and children alike. Access to these resources is why internet availability is a top priority for schools around the world. The good news is that there are a few basic techniques that every parent can use to mitigate the risks to their children.

1.        Education: Keep an open line of communication with your kids about Internet safety. Talk to your children about the dangers of the internet and facilitate an environment where it is ok for them to talk to you about any material or interactions they have seen on the internet that makes them feel uncomfortable. Deployed military members should educate their family members on OPSEC objectives. For example: making good choices about what is written in emails, said on the phone, or posted on social networking sites and blogs. Keep in mind, any information you put in the public domain is also available to criminals. It is also a good practice for parents to monitor their children’s Internet usage. Report to your local law enforcement agency immediately any suspicious online activity.

2.        Use good judgement: Do not allow your children to use the Internet without adult supervision. Keep in mind that children of military members may be even more susceptible to cyber attacks because of their parents' active duty status.

3.        Maintain a password for your home computer: Password creation will block unauthorized Internet access when you are not present.