Protecting Young Children OnlineSpeaker NameSpeaker Organization

Slide 1: Protecting Young Children Online

TALKING POINTS

[Note to speaker: This slide is the point at which you would introduce yourself.]

Today Im going to talk to you about how you can help protect young kids online, and how to approach teaching them habits and practices that will help them stay safer when they use the Internet.

First, Ill touch on the risks kids face online.Then Ill explain the three steps you can take to teach your young ones Internet safety.Last, Ill give some brief advice about what to do if there are problems, and then take comments and questions, if theres time at the end.

Even if you may feel you dont have the same technical savvy that kids do, remember that youve been teaching them about safety ever since they were old enough to crawl. You simply need to learn how to apply to the online world what you already know about safety and privacy in general.

Everything Ill discuss today (including links to websites) is in a brochure that Ill pass out near the end of the presentation, so you dont need to worry about taking notes. [click]

Teach kids Internet safety. Its like teaching them to swim.

Slide 2: Teach kids Internet safety. Its like teaching them to swim.

TALKING POINTSTeaching little kids how to stay safe online is a lot like teaching them to swim. Just as your goal is for kids to swim on their own, you also want to help children take on more and more of the Internet on their own.

With swimming, children start with the basicshow to jump in and float. Once proficient there, kids move on to more complex skills like how to swim the width of the pool. With mastery, kids are ready to learn how to dive or do flip turns.

Its the same for learning how to stay safer online. Rather than trying to control kids use of the Internet, you can help them build the digital skills theyll need to use it on their own.

While theyre still young, sit with them as they play online. Teach and encourage them to develop a smart sense of how to deal with situations, information, and people they encounter on the web. Then, as they demonstrate readiness and master safety skills, help them take the next step to using new services or tools.

Of course, when children go swimming, you assess the risks: Is there a lifeguard on duty? Is it easy to see where the water gets deep? Are there waves?

Going online is no different. So well start with a quick primer on Internet risks for young kids. [click]

Kids may:Reveal personal informationEncounter inappropriate materialDownload malicious softwareOthers may expose kids information

What are the risks?

Slide 3: What are the risks?

TALKING POINTSWell look briefly at the risks and what kids might do to expose themselves to such risks. [click]

When kids dont understand how to use the Internet safely:

They may give away personal information. This could make them vulnerable to bullies or exposes them to other risks, including those from people who pretend to be friends, but dont mean well.

Kids might click a link in email or on a social network, or while searching the web, and stumble upon inappropriate material including hateful or suggestive content.

Kids might also click on a flashy ad or open an enticing free game, that could download damaging malicious software. Clicking on something like this might also enable a criminal to seize control of your computer, to spy on your online activities, or to record the passwords and account numbers you type. [click]

In addition, others may unintentionally or deliberately expose childrens information. Your childs school or club website may reveal too much personal information, like his or her full name and schedule. Friends and family may share personal information about children through comments and photos. Some sites share or selleven ownthe personal data they collect. [click]

Internet safety for young kids: 3 steps

1. Pay attention to kids activities online2. Set clear rules3. Put technology to work

Slide 4: Internet safety for young kids: 3 steps

TALKING POINTSSo how can you teach youngsters to avoid these risks and use the Internet more safely? There are three practical steps you can take: [click]

Sit with children while they play online. Let them show you what theyre doing and who theyre interacting with. [click]

When you set straightforward rules, you define the boundaries within which kids can explore the web more safely. [click]

Your first line of defense is to strengthen your computers defenses, and you can also use family safety tools to help protect children.

Lets look at the first step more closely [click]

Step 1Pay attention tokids activitiesonline

Slide 5: Step 1 Pay attention to kids activities online

TALKING POINTSThe first step may be the most familiar to youpaying attention to what kids are doing on the web. [click]

Pay attention to kids activities onlineJoin the funEvaluate websites and devices beforehandLocate consoles and computers centrallyWatch for changes in behavior

Step 1

Slide 6: Step 1 Pay attention to kids activities online

TALKING POINTS

Join. Just as youd start in the pool with the littlest ones, regularly sit with young ones while they play online. Oreven more fun--play with them! Let them show you what theyre doing and who theyre interacting with. [click]

Evaluate. Visit the websites your children want to visit and, if you can, test the games they want to play. Evaluate the devices children want to use before they use thempreferably before you even buy them.

Experiment to make sure youre comfortable with their features. Restrict any functionality your child isnt yet ready for. Some examples of features to explore:

GPS on mobile phonesthis is the phones ability to pinpoint where you are at any given time and mark (or tag) the location of photos.

Internet access on mobile phones.

Computer webcams for use with video calls like Skype.

The ability to send unfiltered images or download applications (apps). [click]

Locate. Put Internet-connected game consoles and computersespecially those with webcamsin central family spaces, and explain why youre doing this. Make video calls there, too. This helps you watch over kids more comfortably. [click]

Watch. As your little ones begin to navigate the web on their own, keep on the lookout for changes in behavior that may be signs of cyberbullying or other issuesfor example, if children show an uncharacteristic reluctance to go online or to go to school, unusual secretiveness, or they seem to be spending too much time online. [click]

Step 2Set clear rules

Slide 7: Step 2 Set clear rules

TALKING POINTSThe second step is setting clear rules.

Every young swimmer learns the rules for safe swimming: Never swim alone. Dont go in the deep end until youre ready. Dont push others into the water. Its the same for learning to use the Internet.

Studies show a positive impact on kids when parents clearly define the rules about computer, game, and mobile phone use. [click]

Set clear rulesKeep personal information privateRespect othersUse computers safelyStep 2

Slide 8: Step 2 Set clear rules

TALKING POINTS

As children begin to go online, these three rules offer supportive guidance with room to grow. Set the stage by discussing with kids the kinds of sites that are off limits,what information shouldnt be shared, andthe boundaries for communicating respectfully.

Explain that the rules are to protect, not to control, them.

Lets take a closer look at each rule. [click]

Set clear rules: Keep personal info privateAsk before sharing personal infoChoose safe online names and addresses Create strong passwordsKeep passwords secretStep 2

Slide 9: Step 2 Set clear rules: Keep personal info private

TALKING POINTS

Personal info. Explain to kids what personal information means and teach them to keep it private. Of course, if youre a parent, you will be the ultimate judge of how to explain this because it will depend on the age and maturity level of your child.

Here are some examples of personal information: passwords, age, phone numbers, full name, school, favorite playground, interests, photos (particularly photos that give away where the child lives or goes to school), home and email addresses, even feelings.

Stress the value of personal information to those who may want to exploit itbullies, predators, and identity thieves. [click]

Train kids to ask you before sharing personal information about themselves, friends, or family in texts, email, or on social sites. [click]

Safe names. Help kids create email addresses, screen names, and gamer tags that dont reveal anything personal, arent suggestive, and dont make them easy to locate. For example, avoid names like Bobby12, FoxyFrancesca, or JoeyHealyDubuque. Instead, use names like MyDogRover or SoccerFan.

Also make sure that the email or instant messages they send dont show their real names. In the brochure Ill pass out at the end, theres a link to step-by-step instructions that explain how to do this. (aka.ms/hide-name) [click]

Strong passwords. Help children create strong passwords. Strong passwords are long phrases or sentences that mix capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Again, the brochure will have a link to a page with lots more detail. (aka.ms/passwords-create.) [click]

Keep them secret. Its also important to emphasize that kids should not share passwords with anyone but parents or a trusted adultnot even best friends. For example, kids may be impersonated on their own phones because they gave the password to a friend. [click]

Set clear rules: Respect othersBe kindBe honest

Step 2

Slide 10: Step 2 Set clear rules: Respect others

TALKING POINTSJust as you may need to remind kids not to splash or jump on others in the pool, its a good idea to remind them to treat others online as they would like to be treated. [click]

Be clear with children that it is never okay to post mean comments, send unkind instant or text messages, or bully others online. Make sure to explain what online bullying is (known as cyberbullying): using the Internet for repeated unwanted or cruel behavior against someone. (And because its online, cyberbullying can be virtually invisible to parents and other adults.) [click] You also want kids to be honest online. Of course they know that stealing is wrong. Explain that online, that includes stealing from other players in games, and that downloading music, games, and other copyrighted material without permission or paying for it is stealing, too, so its illegal. [click]

Set clear rules: Use the computer safelyBe cautiousThink, then clickBe choosy about new friendsSay NO to secret friendshipsStep 2

Slide 11: Step 2 Set clear rules: Use the computer safely

TALKING POINTSJust as it takes getting used to the water when youre learning to swim, theres a lot for kids to get comfortable with when they go online. [click]

A good overall rule of thumb to tell kids is: be cautious. Not everything they see online is true, attachments may not be what they seem, nor is everyone who they say they are.

Here are three things children can do to put that advice into practice: [click]

No matter how splashy or enticing, kids shouldnt open attachments or click links with free offers in ads, contests, games, or email or IM (even from friends). This might release malicious software. [click]

Kids should be choosy about accepting new friends on phones and social sites or in games. Make sure you both know everyone on their contact lists. [click]

Teach little ones to say NO to and stop contact with anyone who wants to have a secret friendship. They also should not respond to bullies. Ask your children to tell you if this happens. [click]

Step 3Put technology to work

Slide 12: Step 3 Put technology to work

TALKING POINTSSwimmers use technology to make swimming saferflotation devices for beginners, goggles to protect the eyes, ropes and buoys to indicate the depth of the water.

Of course, online you can use technology, too. [click]

Put technology to workUse family safety toolsProtect children on mobile phonesBoost computer defensesBe the administrator of home computers

Step 3

Slide 13: Step 3 Put technology to work

TALKING POINTSOur third step explains four ways you can use technology to bolster kids safety online. [click]

You can use family safety tools (built into many programs) to help you block harmful content and sharing of personal information, manage the sites children visit, monitor their contacts and time online, and watch for behavior like cyberbullying. Microsoft, for example, offers free safety features in many of its programs including Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Xbox.

However, if you use these tools, tell your kids. Explain what you are watching for and whyand that you are doing it to help keep them safe while they learn. [click]

Mobile phones:Lock the phone with a PIN to keep anyone from using it to call, text, or get personal info. Just as with passwords, teach your child never to share the PIN.

Use the GPS in mobile phones cautiously. If you use a family location service to monitor your kids whereabouts, make sure others cant locate them. Otherwise, consider disabling this feature on your childs phone. At the very least, turn it off for the phones camera. [click]

Boost your computers defenses. These are the best all round things you can do to help secure your computer against Internet threats.

Start by keeping all software (including your web browser) current with automatic updating.

Install legitimate antivirus and antispyware software from source that you trust, like Microsoft Security Essentials.

Never turn off your firewall. (Sometimes games suggest doing this.) A firewall puts a protective barrier between your PC and the Internet, and turning it off even for a minute increases risk.

(Microsoft can help you do these three things. There will be a link to that information in the brochure.)

Protect your wireless router with a password. Find out how from the company that provides your router.

Use flash drives cautiously to minimize the chance that youll infect your computer. [click]

Be the administrator of home computers. Learn to create different user accounts so you can manage your childs settings: aka.ms/childsafety. (Youll have to scroll down on the page to find these instructions under Create different user accounts.) [click]

[Note to speaker: Consider distributing the brochure at this point. Point out the links in this section, as well as the one for creating strong passwords under Teach kids to keep personal information private.]

What to do if there is a problem

Slides 14: What to do if there is a problem

TALKING POINTSMost of the time spent on the Internet is safe and fun. But sometimes children may run into problems. [click]

What to do if there is a problem

Teach kids to trust their instinctsDont curtail privilegesAlways report physical threats and cyberbullying

Slides 15: What to do if there is a problem

TALKING POINTSThe most fundamental advice is to teach children to pay attention to their instincts and to trust those instinctsjust as young swimmers pay attention if they feel short of breath while under water. If something feels uncomfortable or alarms them, thats a good warning sign. Let kids know they can come to you and that you will help solve the problem. [click]

Agree that you wont take away their phone or curtail privileges because of someone elses actions. [click]

Immediately report:Physical threats, persistent cyberbullying, or any form of exploitation to the police and the web service or phone carrier. (Also consider blocking the person.)

Inappropriate behavior to the school (if it involves another student) and to the phone carrier or web service. For example, in Microsoft services or software, look for the Report Abuse link.

Also, note that in the United States, it is illegal to collect personal information on anyone under age 13 without express parental consent. If you see this happening, report it tothe site immediately and to the FTC at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov. Or you can call (877) 382-4357 (toll free) to submit your complaint to a live operator.

Lets recap the three things you can do to help protect kids online. [click]

Pay attention tokids activitiesonline

Slide 16: Pay attention to kids online

TALKING POINTSRegularly sit with young children while they play online (or play with them). Let them show you what theyre doing and who theyre interacting with. Make sure to evaluate the devices kids want to use, the websites they want to visit, and the games they want to play. [click]

Set clear rules

Slide 17: Set clear rules

TALKING POINTSThere are three basic rules you can teach children to use the Internet more safely: keep personal information private, respect others, and use computers safely. [click]

Put technology to work

Slide 18: Put technology to work

TALKING POINTSYour first line of defense is to strengthen your computers defenses against Internet threats. You can also help protect kids on computers by using family safety tools and keep them on mobile phones with PINs and the cautious use of GPS. [click]

More helpful infoLearn howGet the latest: microsoft.com/securityComments? Questions?

Slide 19: More helpful info

TALKING POINTS

[Note to speaker: If you havent done so already, pass out the brochure. To easily find the links in the brochure, simply scan for the bold text.]

To learn how to do some of the things Ive talked about todayfor example, build strong passwords or boost your computers defenseslets review the links on the inside. On the back, youll find links to more helpful information.

Get the latest information on defending your computer, safeguarding your information, and protecting your family online with regular visits to Microsofts Safety & Security Center.

Any comments or questions? [click]

[Note to speaker: Round out your presentation with a discussion among audience members so they can share their experiences. Or try a question-and-answer session if you feel comfortable answering questions on online safety. If you dont feel comfortable, but questions come up, solicit answers fromthe audience.]

Your gateway to the latest information from Microsoft about how to help defend your computer, safeguard your information, and protect your family: microsoft.com/security.

2012. Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. This material is provided for informational purposes only. Microsoft makes no warranties, express or implied.

Slide 20: Microsoft slide

TALKING POINTSThanks for your time and for your questions and comments.