Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
- What is the most important thing that I can do to CyberSafe my teen?
- Who should I call if I suspect that my teen is being solicited by an online predator?
- Where can I go as a parent to learn more about the dangers on the Internet?
- What is social networking site?
- What is CyberBullying?
- What is Peer-to-Peer File Sharing?
- What is a Chat Room?
- Should I allow my child to chat?
- What is IM?
- What is considered an online solicitation?
- Is there a profile of online predators?
- How can I tell whether my child has been involved or is involved with an online predator?
What is the most important thing that I can do to CyberSafe my teen?
The key is for you as a parent, teacher, school administrator or youth group leader to know what your children are doing. Be aware of:
- What your children are doing on the Internet.
- How much time they are spending on the Internet.
- What sites they are visiting on the Internet.
- What they are posting on the Internet.
- Who they are interacting with on the Internet.
- Where they access the Internet, it may not be at home or even on a computer.
Who should I call if I suspect that my teen is being solicited by an online predator?
Call the Utah Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Tipline: 801-281-1195
Email: utahicac@utah.gov
Where can I go as a parent to learn more about the dangers on the Internet?
What is social networking site?
A social networking site is an online environment where individuals can build a web page, post pictures and share information with a network of friends. Teens use social networking sites as a way to keep in touch with and meet new friends. My.Space and Friendster are two examples.
CyberBullying is sending or posting harmful or cruel text or images using the Internet or other digital communication devices.
What is Peer-to-Peer File Sharing?
Peer-to-peer or file-sharing programs allow you to share your files with others on the Internet and vice versa.
Chat rooms are online places where groups of people can carry on a conversation on certain topics. They're the hardest of the communication tools to manage because they're usually open to anyone.
Should I allow my child to chat?
It depends on your child. Chat rooms are the most common place to get into trouble. Online predators hang around in chat rooms where kids are and pose as a child. If you do allow your child to chat, you should be close by and watching the conversation.
Instant messaging or IM is a form of real-time communication between two or more people based on typed text. The messages are sent via the Internet using an instant messaging software program such as AOL Instant Messenger, Google Talk, ichat, or Yahoo! Messenger.
What is considered an online solicitation?
Unprovoked, uninvited, or unwanted requests to engage in sexual activities, engage in sexually explicit conversations, or give personal sexual information.
Is there a profile of online predators?
No, they can be anyone. The Internet allows people to remain anonymous and does not prevent adults from lying about their age or intentions.
How can I tell whether my child has been involved or is involved with an online predator?
Be sensitive to any changes in your child?s behavior or attitude. Be aware of unknown telephone numbers on your bill or your child?s cellular telephone bill and unexplained gifts your child has received.
