Child Safety on the Information Superhighway

What Are the Risks?

There are a few risks for children who use online services. Teenagers are particularly at risk because they often use the computer unsupervised and because they are more likely than younger children to participate in online discussions regarding companionship, relationships, or sexual activity. Some risks are:

• Exposure to Inappropriate Material

One risk is that a child may be exposed to inappropriate material of a sexual or violent nature.

• Physical Molestation
  

  Another risk is that, while online, a child might provide information or arrange an encounter that could risk his or her safety or the safety of other family members. In a few cases, pedophiles have used online services and bulletin boards to gain a child's confidence and then arrange a face-to-face meeting.

• Harassment
  

  A third risk is that a child might encounter e-mail or bulletin board messages that are harassing, demeaning, or belligerent.