NCJ Number
219156
Journal
Child Abuse Review Volume: 16 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2007 Pages: 153-170
Date Published
May 2007
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article discusses how to safeguard children from and educate them about online sexual solicitation and pornography.
Abstract
The article first discusses the various techniques that pornographic Web sites and sexual predators use to attract or make themselves accessible to Internet users. Generally, the acquisition of technological computer software such as a firewall, anti-spyware software, wireless encryptions, and antivirus software will protect children and youth computer users from a predator's attempt to access personal information of computer users; however, these programs or applications cannot protect young users from a predator who has already received contact information voluntarily given by a youth. Attention to a child's online activities should be the primary tool for protecting them from sexually explicit interactions with predators. The filtering of computer communications (e.g., NetNanny) is a primary tool for preventing Internet exposure to inappropriate material. This tool enables parents to exclude from access to their children all but approved Web sites. Evasive techniques are available, however, which means that technology should not be the only technique used. Other methods used should include discussing with children specific Internet dangers, parental monitoring of the people with whom children have Internet interactions, the monitoring of children's screen names to ensure they do not attract predators, having the family's Internet-connected computer in a public area in the home, and reporting any inappropriate solicitations to the authorities. 44 references and appended caregiver-young person contract for safe Internet use