Thursday, April 13, 2006

Introduction by site publisher: This week subject is in regard to Dateline NBC report on Myspace.Com, and local reports on sexual predators and identity thieves. The question is who is ultimately responsible for their children's welfare, when it comes to the Internet? Parents? Lawmakers? Or, Myspace.com? The postings to follow will share their perspective with us and all opinions on comments are welcomed---Hari Seldon...
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Internet and Children
by Gabriel Thrace


In today’s world we have become accustomed to certain things as adults. Chatting online and an Instant message popup from a friend or even from people we don’t know. Even going to a chat room to us seems harmless.

What about our children? Should they feel safe on the Internet? My answer would be yes but it is a fact that they are being sexually solicited online by predators. These are Sick people who find preying on young people amusing and arousing.

In the news recently MySpace© has been under fire for young children being exploited. Should they be the only ones who are being attacked? I don’t think so. I think that the parents should also be under fire. Where were they? Awareness needs to be made out there and the parents should monitor their children’s activities on the Internet.

As a mother of 3 young children, 1 being a teen, I follow their every move. They have rules on the Internet just as they would go out to the movies with friends. Private chat rooms only that the parents setup, Instant messages only from people they and the parents know. Monitor emails also. Think this is invasion of privacy? Good! Because you have to know who they are talking to!!!!

I know you can’t be there for them for everything but please inform your children on what to do if they do receive an email or a person who is seeking personal information about them. The computer is not a new babysitter that took over the TV or the game systems. It is very dangerous.

As for chat clients and other online communities, try to give out information on what to do if they are approached by someone and needs help in getting away.

Remember; Don’t always believe the TYPE!!!!!

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