Identifying Internet Safety Risks To Children Online:

Just the other day I was reviewing some free downloadable postcards for real estate on the web. And I was reminded of just how easy it is to accidentally download unwanted or unintended things from the web.

It also reminded me how chock full of pornographic an adult related content the web really is.

Among the easily downloaded objects on the web, real estate postcards free downloadable are the least of your worries.

During my search for free postcards, I must have accidentally clicked on at least two dozen "adult" themed sites. Many are innocuous. You think you might be clicking on a link for "just sold" homes when really you click on a link selling adult services.

Adult webmasters are becoming trickier and trickier. Fortunately you can filter out may links to adult sites using various programs and through your ISP.

Some of the risks associated with teen and children's use of the Internet are obvious.

For example, exposure to inappropriate or adult themed content on the web is an obvious risk associated with Internet use.

There are however, other risks not obvious. You may not be able to easily filter out these risks. The more you are aware of them, the more likely you will be to protect your teen from accidental exposure.

Top Risks on the Web:

Here is a break down of some of the more common risks associated with frequent Internet use, those not associated with adult sites:

  • Harassment on the Internet - many teens and children experience bullying on the web or Internet, usually through chat messages or through e-mail.

  • Viruses and hackers - inexperienced users are more subject to hackers and viruses that could potentially damage their computer or risk your family's privacy, particularly if your teen uses your credit card on the web.

  • Financial - there are financial risks associated with doing business on the web, so you should be careful of offering your credit card information to your teen or other inexperienced user without oversight.

There are many ways to reduce these risks including limiting time on the computer, filtering web sites, allowing your children to use your credit card only under supervision and ensuring you routinely review sites visited by your children.

If you notice your child is upset after using the web, talk with them about their web use to ensure they aren't being victimized in any way.

Taking small steps like this go a long way toward promoting everyone's safety.


President & CEO,
PCTattletale.Com