When it comes to keeping your children safe there are so many things you need to do, teach them how to cross the road safely, how to ride a bike, make sure they are wearing a helmet, teach them not to talk to strangers and so on. But of course, these dangers and many more also exist online, and this is a whole new ball game. However, as well as installing trusted antivirus software on your computer and making sure you install Google Chrome for Mac to ensure you have a safe browser, there are some other basic tips you can use for keeping your children safe online.
Talk To Your Children
This is the first place to start. Children are born with the internet in their lives now; they know no different so they undoubtedly get their first internet-connected gadgets at a young age and this is when you need to start talking to them about it.
Keep Your Computer Where You Can See It
It’s more difficult for people to harass or groom your child when you can see what your child is up to, so make sure your kids aren’t going to bed with their laptops and phones. Keep the computer in a common area and make sure you know when they are on the internet.
Be Aware Of Other Computers Your Children Are Using
Your children will probably have access to computers at school or their friends’ houses, so make sure you know where else they go online and talk to their friends’ parents about how they make sure their kids are safe online.
Remind Your Children Not To Talk To Strangers – Or Meet Them
Make it clear to your children that even online, strangers, are not friends and they could still be dangerous, in fact even more dangerous as people lie about their age, and online predators often pretend that they are children. Tell your children never to reveal personal information such as their name, address, phone number, school name, or even their friends’ names.
Know Your Children’s Passwords
Depending on the age of your child, it might be an idea to create an account for them in your own name so you’ll have the password and can monitor their activity. However, if they’re a bit older, then your child can create their own account but do make sure that you have the password and let them know that you’ll be checking in on it from time to time. Remember though that there are age limitations on accounts and if a site says that you need to be 18 to register, then maybe your child should wait.
Check Your Children’s Browsing History
Open your web browser and look at the history after your child has been using the computer and check what websites they have been on. Also, have a look in the recycle bin to see if any files have been deleted. It’s a good idea to keep tabs on what they have been doing and searching for.
Set Rules
Don’t just set rule, stick to them too. You need to make sure you manage your children’s screen time and set boundaries for inappropriate content. Check with your internet service provider about filters you can use to block pornographic or violent websites or invest in a Wi-Fi router with parental controls.
Which steps do you take to keep your kids safe online?
This is a collaborative post
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