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<\/div>\nSponsored by<\/span> <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Even though the risk of being contacted by an online predator is very low, it\u2019s still vital that you teach your child the following:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In addition to making sure your security software is programmed to check regularly for updates, tell <\/p>\n Most social networks require users to be at least 13 years old (though there are some designed for those under 13, with lots of parent oversight). There is no real way to police this activity, however, and surveys have indicated that millions of kids younger than 13 have a social networking profile. Consider your child\u2019s maturity level before allowing him to join an online community, and then teach him to follow the rules of the community. To help your child safely navigate social networks, consider these options:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Cyberbullying doesn\u2019t happen to everyone, but it can occur among children of any age who use the Internet, particularly on social media and in the gaming world. It can be devastating to a child because online bullies often feel emboldened by the anonymity of the Internet to say and do things they wouldn\u2019t in person. Cruel and hurtful comments can also spread quickly among classmates through the Internet and reach children at home, giving them no refuge from the harassment.<\/p>\n When talking with your child about cyberbullying, emphasize the following:<\/p>\n If the bullying persists and it\u2019s among kids who attend the same school, the first step should be to report it to the school. Many schools are legally required to have processes and policies in place that must be followed to investigate and mediate any bullying that affects its students.<\/p>\n Also, check to see whether your state has a cyberbullying law. Call your state attorney general\u2019s office or go online and search your state\u2019s name and the words \u201ccyberbully law.\u201d<\/p>\n Visit https:\/\/internetsafety.trendmicro.com<\/a> for more information. We also recommend \u201cA Parent\u2019s Guide to Cyberbullying\u201d at www.connectsafely.org<\/a>. And the Cyberbullying Research Center provides an excellent resource at https:\/\/cyberbullying.org\/report<\/a>. It\u2019s a frequently updated list of contact information for social media apps, gaming networks, and related companies\u2014so you can find exactly where and how to report cyberbullying behavior.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Every time your child opens an app, plays with a smart toy, posts on social media, or videochats with friends, it\u2019s an opportunity to teach them to safeguard their (and your) privacy.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Almost all videogames today allow players to chat with and compete against family, friends, or strangers from anywhere in the world, in real time. Protect your child while they\u2019re gaming with others in the following ways:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Cybercriminals are constantly creating gaming applications that look legitimate but actually put your personal information at risk. Some fake apps sell \u201ccheat codes,\u201d lock your child out of a game until you pay a ransom, and more. Here\u2019s how to help keep your kids from falling prey to phony games:<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat can I do to make sure my child is using the Internet safely and responsibly?<\/h2>\n
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What should I teach my child about staying safe online?<\/h2>\n
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I\u2019m afraid my child will click on something online that will infect our computer with a virus. How can I keep this from happening?<\/h2>\n
\nyour child:<\/p>\n\n
At what age is a child ready to have a social networking profile?<\/h2>\n
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What should I know about cyberbullying?<\/h2>\n
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How do I protect my family\u2019s personal information and security now that my children videochat every day for school and to talk to their friends?<\/h2>\n
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What do I need to teach my child about privacy online?<\/h2>\n
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I\u2019ve allowed my child to spend more time playing videogames lately because it\u2019s a way he can keep connected with his friends. How do I keep him safe on gaming apps?<\/h2>\n
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How do I keep my child from using a fake game app?<\/h2>\n