The Internet can be a dangerous place for children as much as the real world. Here are some tips on how to safeguard our children from the dangers the lurk in cyberspace.

Educate yourself about the Internet and the common activities children and teenagers engage when they are online. Because how can you teach your children about Internet safety if you are also ignorant of the how’s and why’s of the Internet.

Make your children aware of the inappropriate materials that can be found on the Internet such as pornography, violence, and hate sites. Discuss these with your children and together make clear guidelines regarding the use of the Internet. Having a discussion would make it collaborative, making sure that your children do understand what the issue is about.

Explicitly warn your children about giving out personal information, sending of personal photographs, and of course, agreeing to meet in person with anyone they meet on the Internet. If anyone sends an e-mail or IM them with messages that contain strange, offensive, and threatening content and language, then they need to inform you immediately.

Inquire with your service provider regarding parental controls which can block access to Web pages, chat rooms, and other sites that are not suitable to children. You may also buy a blocking software for your computer for added security.

Monitor your children’s online activities. Do not let them keep a computer in their room. Have them use a computer in the study or family room.