Internet and Cell Phone Safety

On October 20th, we welcomed Officer George Mumma from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department to Peace With Christ for a presentation on keeping our kids safe while taking advantage of internet and cell phone technology. He gave a lot of information in an hour and a half – too much to relay in this article – but Iwould like to pass on a few things he shared. More information is available if you call 303-271-6766.

 Cell Phones and Your Child

_ 90% of teens in middle and high school have cell phones.

_ 60% of teens report receiving “random” text messages from someone they do not know.

_ Predators are known to send out “random” messages in hopes of getting a teen to respond and

begin more regular communications. These messages often contain an inappropriate picture.

_ 50% of teens sleep with their cell phone — they are in contact with others while parents sleep, too.

 Internet Safety Tips

_ Know the dangers associated with the sites that your children frequent.

_ Teach children the obvious rules.

_ Educate yourself to what is out there, then educate your child.

_ Install an internet filter or family safety software.

_ Manage your child’s time on the internet and cell phone.

_ Keep computers out of children’s bedrooms.

_ Video game and game sites – “Play the game, don’t give out your name”.

Officer Mumma relayed a story involving a young teen who was communicating with someone on the computer that she didn’t know. Convinced that she had not revealed any personal information, the officer began looking at previous conversations. According to the history, she had revealed her favorite sport as soccer, where and when she played in a league, her jersey number, and what kind of car her parents drove. Predators know the internet terminology well and how to get kids talking. Kids are often unaware of the dangers they may be facing. Here is some of the terminology. BAC; BEG; HTH; SOS; POS – By any chance; Big evil grin; Hope this happens; Sibling over shoulder; Parent over shoulder. Teenagers are attracted to social networking sites. They have found that parents are often shocked to find out their child

has been communicating with a sex offender. Kids are very resourceful and may find ways to access internet at their friends’ homes or schools. Today, many kids have “Smart Phones” meaning they have internet access with them wherever they go. The key to keeping kids safe is open communication and trust. The presentation was interesting and informative. The Jefferson County District Attorney began the Child Sex Offender Internet Investigations (CSOII) Unit in an effort to recognize the dangers and investigate those who would harm children. They provide safety presentations for children, schools, and parent groups.