Within this "technology generation" are bright young minds that seamlessly reach between their many resources to select the tool they are the most comfortable using for any given purpose. This is the ideal- one reason I work so hard- making sure learners have the technology they need to feel that there is nothing that can hold them back in whatever their quest may be. And I love that. However, just as we equip our children to walk down the street on their own, we must equip them to learn the potential dangers that they may encounter surfing through the world wide web.
Remarkably, age makes no difference in the world wide web. A 9 year old is just as likely to run into trouble as a 15 year old, a 25 year old, a 40 year old and so on. We're not talking age here, where talking knowledge.
WWW users must have the knowledge they need to protect themselves against spammers, phishers, and online predators and the devastation they can cause. There's no need for fear here- just as you do not fear walking down the street. You know you may encounter an obstacle or dangerous person on any given street or day- but you have a plan... at least I hope you do.
No matter what age you are or level online knowledge you have - take some time to invest in your own knowledge and/or the knowledge of your children. This investment will help them become wise and critical thinkers, confident explorers and just may save their life.
I recommend doing some reading in the following resources. Then take time to reflect personally or with your children (ALL AGES- Yes, high school, college and young adults too!) on just what would you do IF...
1. What would you do if someone asks you for personal information like phone numbers, last names, addresses, bank account information?
2. What would you do if someone asks you for a photo of yourself?
3. What would you do if someone asks to meet you publicly? or secretly?
For more of these conversation starter questions see the Web Wise Kids Internet Safety Plan
http://www.webwisekids.org/uploads/internet_safety_plan.pdf
http://www.webwisekids.org/uploads/internet_safety_plan.pdf
For more about scammers and phishers:
Brochure about common international financial scams
http://travel.state.gov/pdf/international_financial_scams_brochure.pdf
Blog where visitors can read and share stories on Internet scammers
http://www.419legal.org/blog/2008/05/05/money-mules-fraud-from-overseas-are-baiting-locals-for-help/
http://travel.state.gov/pdf/international_financial_scams_brochure.pdf
Blog where visitors can read and share stories on Internet scammers
http://www.419legal.org/blog/2008/05/05/money-mules-fraud-from-overseas-are-baiting-locals-for-help/
Snopes.com
What to do if someone comes to your house...
CBS News clip on strangers and college students... a good eye opener for young adults and their parents.
Spiderman said, "With great freedom, comes great responsibility."
Make sure you are responsible for educating yourself and your children on the potential dangers out there and you have a plan if something comes up.
I want you to be safe from the sharks when you surf.
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