he Internet has opened up a virtual world of information for anyone
with a computer and an on-line connection. Children not only learn
about computers, but are able to access more information from
more sources more quickly than from any other medium. However,
children need to learn the rules of the road, and learn how to
protect themselves from the pedophiles, abusers, and con artists
that may be lurking behind their screen. With a little bit of
planning and appropriate adult supervision, children can explore
and learn while minimizing, or eliminating the dangers of being
abused or exploited.
Just like in a park or public place, a child's best defense
is a sound value system and a plan. Teach your children about
exploitation, pornography, hate literature, and violence.
Teach them what to do when someting they see is troubling
or bothersome to them.
Set aside time to explore the Internet together. That way,
you can set the examples of how suspicious messages or people
are appropriately handled, and you may be better informed
yourself.
Monitor your children when they are on line. If your child
becomes uneasy or defensive when you enter the room, it might
mean that they are involved in something unusual or forbidden.
Choose an Internet Provider that has parental control features,
and learn how to use them. Or, you may purchase commercial
blocking software to screen out sites by content and key words
you find objectionable. Such blocking is very effective, and
is already done by local libraries and schools.
Tell children NEVER to give out personal information, such
as address, telephone number, or their parent's name. They
should NEVER send pictures of themselves to anyone they don't
know, or that YOU have not met in person.
Assume NOTHING about anyone you or your child may meet on-line.
Pedophiles and con artists can easily assume the on-line identity,
language and apparent interests of a child of any age and
sex in order to lure and entice them to respond as they might
to a real person. Unless you have met someone in person, what
appears to be a chatty 15-year- old girl might actually be
a 45-year-old male pedophile.
If you or your child comes across material that you find pornographic,
threatening, or otherwise offensive, it might well be a violation
of law. Save the material, and contact your local law enforcement
agency. The Philadelphia Police Department has forensic computer
investigation facilities and experienced law enforcement personnel
specifically trained to investigate computer crime, and in particular,
computer crime focused on child abuse and exploitation.
Another resource is the National Center for Missing or Exploited
Children. They function as a national clearinghouse for tips
and leads regading the sexual exploitation of children. You
can call the 24-hour Child Pornography Tipline at 1-800-843-5678,
or make your reports on-line at their website, www.missingkids.com.
They will compile and forward the information to the appropriate
state, federal, or local law enforcement agency for action.
Information
listed here is believed to be current at the time of publication.
However, some of the material presented here may have expired
since it was posted. Persons should contact a Philadelphia Police
representative whenever relying on dated material or information
that is subject to change.
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he Internet has opened up a virtual world of information for anyone
with a computer and an on-line connection. Children not only learn
about computers, but are able to access more information from
more sources more quickly than from any other medium. However,
children need to learn the rules of the road, and learn how to
protect themselves from the pedophiles, abusers, and con artists
that may be lurking behind their screen. With a little bit of
planning and appropriate adult supervision, children can explore
and learn while minimizing, or eliminating the dangers of being
abused or exploited.
