Cyber Safety

"They didn't have that when I was a kid" is a common statement we hear from parents. The fact remains that kids today have access to a multitude of information and media from around the world. Adults being informed and aware of the types of media and information students may access is important to insure students are accessing age appropriate content. Below is a list of some resources available to help everyone in our community stay informed.

1. Common Sense – https://www.commonsensemedia.org/  A national organization of concerned parents and individuals experienced in child advocacy, public policy, education, media, and entertainment. This site shares reviews of movies, games, apps, and websites to keep parents informed.

2. ConnectSafely – http://www.ConnectSafely.org A non-profit organization based in Palo Alto, Calif., and Salt Lake City, Utah. This site features an interactive blog forum for parents, teens, and educators to learn about blog safety and social networking. All aspects of online safety are featured, including cell phone safety. Articles featured include timely news stories and articles written by guest authorities. There is also an option for Spanish Language.

3. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – http://www.fbi.gov/fbikids.htm A simple list of Internet safety rules can be found on the Kids’ Page under safety tips.

4. GetNetWise – http://www.getnetwise.org This is a project of the Internet Education Foundation, a public service of several Internet industry corporations and organizations, including the American Library Association. The online safety for children section offers age-level categories. In addition, there are sections on privacy, and protecting your computer. Safety on social networking sites is also included.

5. I Keep Safe – http://www.ikeepsafe.org Sponsored by the Internet Keep Safe Coalition, comprised of governors and/or first spouses in partnership with crime prevention organizations, law enforcement agencies, foundations, and corporate sponsors . This site is the home of the animated mascot, Faux Paw, the Techno Cat, who gives guidelines to teach children Internet safety. Includes educational games, worksheets, and tests for educators and parents.

6. National Cyber Security Alliance – http://www.staysafeonline.org Partners are the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Trade Commission, and private corporations. This site provides free and non-technical cyber security and safety resources so consumers, small businesses, and educators can avoid cyber crime. Includes the top eight cyber and security practices, cyber security basics, the latest news on cyber security issues, and a quiz to see how much you know about safety online.

7. NetSmartz – http://www.netsmartz.org A cooperative venture with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. This site includes sections for all ages.The NetSmartzKids andNSTeens interactive pages can both be accessed. There are sections for parents and guardians, educators, law enforcement, teens, and kids. Included are a safety pledge, safety cards, and tips for blogging safely.There is also an option for Spanish Language.

8. OnGuardOnline – http://www.onguardonline.gov The Federal Trade Commission maintains the site, with contributions from several government agencies and technology-affiliated corporations and organizations. The Internet Education Foundation and Microsoft Corp. created some of the tutorials featured. This site provides practical tips from the federal government and the technology industry to help “guard against Internet fraud, secure your computer, and protect your personal information.”

9. Control With Cable – http://www.controlwithcable.org/ Cable offers easy to use parental controls for families to manage their TV and online experiences. Discover tools and resources that enable you to CHOOSE, EDUCATE and CONTROL the media and online content that is appropriate for your household.

10. Safe Kids – http://www.safekids.com SafeKids.com is one of the oldest and most enduring sites for Internet safety. It’s founder and editor, Larry Magid, is the author of the original National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s 1994 brochure, “Child Safety on the Information Highway.” He is co-director of ConnectSafely.org and a technology journalist.

11. Stop Cyberbullying – http://www.stopcyberbullying.org This is a program by Parry Aftab, cyber lawyer, and the Wired Safety Group. The introduction to this site features a PowerPoint presentation describing cyberbullying. The site is organized for students, parents, teachers, and law enforcement agencies. Included are a quiz for students about cyberbullying; detailed, understandable descriptions of the what, how, and why of cyberbullying; and prevention strategies and action tips geared toward each specific interest group.

12. Wired Safety – http://www.wiredsafety.org Founded in 1995 by cyber lawyer Parry Aftab. This in-depth site is loaded with help, information, and education for Internet and mobile device users of all ages and levels of experience. Their focus is on assistance for victims of cyber crime; advice and training for preventing and spotting cyber crime; education for all ages, including law enforcement officers; and awareness of online privacy and security. One helpful feature, “New to the Net? Internet 101,” will help parents/caregivers get a better understanding of the Internet.