State police remind parents of Internet dangers

HART – Aspart of Parenting Awareness Month, the Michigan State Police (MSP) Hart Post is seeking to educate parents about Internet predators and practicing Internet safety with their kids.

“Although it is a valuable resource and learning tool, the Internet also provides predators with almost unhindered access to children,” said F/Lt. Kevin Leavitt, Hart Post commander.  “The U.S. Department of Justice estimates 77 million American children, ages 10 to 17, use the Internet and keeping them safe is our responsibility as parents, educators and law enforcement officers.”

Parents can help practice Internet safety at home by placing the computer in a common area allowing for observation of users’ Internet activity.  Families can also establish Internet use ground rules before going online, such as:

• Do not give out personal information like address, phone number or password.
• Ask permission before sending a picture.
• Ask permission before meeting an Internet friend face-to-face.

Additional Internet safety educational materials and resources for parents can be found online at www.webwisekids.org, www.ikeepsafe.org and www.missingkids.com.  For more information on community programs and crime prevention, visit the MSP website at www.michigan.gov/msp.