Minford Middle School Internet Safety Tips For Families Provided by Minford Telephone

                      1.  Place the computer in a room that easily allows the parent to monitor its use.  The child's
                          bedroom is NOT a recommended location.

                      2.  If at all possible, be present when the child is online.  Do not use the computer as a
                          substitute for a companion.

                      3. If the child tries to block the screen when a parent walks by, consider it a warning to you
                          that the child may be doing something they should not be doing.  Investigate immediately.

                      4. Keep control of your Internet access master account, and do not give the child their own
                          account.

                      5. Explain to your child that people may not be totally honest online.  They may pretend to
                          be other ages, and/or sexes.

                      6. Do not allow your child to participate in live chat rooms while you are not with them, and
                          never allow them to access a private chat room with strangers.  Unfortunately, this has
                          been the source of unpleasant incidents on the Internet.

                      7. Explain to your child not to reveal personal information: names, addresses, phone
                          numbers, city, employment, medical information, or especially Social Security number,
                          drivers license number, and credit card number.   Have your child get permission each
                          time before they give out their name and email address, and check to see what that
                          information is going to be used for.

                      8. Although much of the pornography is legal on the Internet, child pornography is NOT
                          legal.  If  you find a web site in violation, please alert the appropriate legal authorities in
                          your area.

                      9. Protect your child while on the Internet.  Do your homework by reading books, articles in
                          parenting magazines, and visiting web sites to look for more information.

                      10. The protective software listed on Minford Telephone's page is very helpful, but it is not foolproof.