June is Internet Safety Month and the perfect time to take a step back and think about the foundational layers you need to put in place to make the Internet in your home a safe place to surf and reinforce responsible online behaviors with your children.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office encourages you to sit down with your kids and ask questions about their internet habits, such as what sites they visit, who they talk to and how much information they share with others.

By asking these questions, called the three C’s, parents might be surprised to find out just how web-enabled their kids are.

– Content – What content is your child seeking online? Kids are curious by nature and are often drawn to inappropriate websites by their peers. Consider installing internet filtering software to block pornography sites, monitor and record instant messaging and chat room conversations, as well as websites visited. At the very least, children should use the privacy tools built into social media sites to keep people they do not know from accessing their information and data.

– Conduct – What are they posting about themselves or others? A child’s online reputation is a growing concern. Kids need to be reminded that everything they post today will remain online forever and available to be seen by law enforcement, future employers, college recruiters, etc. Encourage your children to practice modesty when posting pictures, avoid writing or sending posts with inappropriate language, and avoid over-sharing personal information that is best kept private – never post full name, address, phone number, school name. Be sure they know that cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking and sexting is a crime.

– Contact – Who do your children interact with online? There are many websites and applications available for kids to visit and video chat with strangers. While this sounds exciting and fun, the truth is a simple click of the mouse could pose a potential safety risk to children. Child predators are always virtually lurking to meet unsuspecting, vulnerable targets. Connecting with someone you do not know is a dangerous game to play.

Make a decision this month to start a conversation with your child about the potential consequences their actions on the Internet can have, and give them the power to make wise choices.

For more information about the topic, contact the LCSO fraud line at (239) 258-3292.

Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office