Do you feel overwhelmed by the challenges of online privacy? You're are not alone!  There are many ways that information about you can be collected online; and many times you're not even aware that it's happening.  In this section, we'll be covering some of the issues and topics related to your privacy online.

Social Networks and Kids

Kids want to be part of social networks. It is important to discuss social networks with them before they join. Be sure all appropriate privacy controls are enabled. Kids can get into trouble or ruin their reputations when they share private feelings and thoughts or inappropriate photos or videos. Challenge your kids to show respect for themselves and others by minimizing the amount of information they share.

Bullying Prevention

Parents and kids need to take an active role in combatting both offline and online bullying. Education and open communication are both critical. Parents should know the warning signs that their child may be a victim or victimizing others. If your child is threatened or you fear for their safety, then save the evidence and take it to local law enforcement.

Strangers and Predators Online

Kids can easily encounter predators online; and predators know the places kids hang out online and how to develop online relationships with them. In this section, we cover the patterns typical of online predators, the likely places where kids can encounter them, how you can minimize the risks of your child becoming a victim, and how to respond if you sense that your child is being targeted by an online predator.

Online Privacy

The Internet offers access to information, entertainment, and connectivity. Kids explore the online world without fully developed relational skills. Kids don't understand the implications of sharing or making available personal information or images. It's imperative that parents assist their children in learning the distinct skills necessary to ensure their learning and their safety. Understanding online privacy and kids is key.

Geotagging Photos and Videos

Geotagging lets people know where and when you took a photo or video. Many devices automatically geotag content. When you share that content, the geotagged information can easily be read by others, letting them know the places you go and the times you tend to be there. To protect your privacy and ensure your family's security, know what devices have geotagging capabilities and be careful when you share or post photos that have geotagging information