Keeping your family safe on the Internet

The Internet is a wonderful place where a family can learn and have fun. However, it can also be a dangerous place. These tips will help keep your family safe on the Internet.

1. Place the computer in a very public place, like the living room. Make sure the computer monitor is always visible. There should always be the chance that someone will see what is on the screen.

2. Have an "Internet time" when family members can browse the web. Do not let family members jump on the Internet whenever they please, and no one should be on the Internet after bed time. The idea is to keep the Internet in a controlled environment.

3. Make the Internet a family time. Do not let children go online alone. Let it be a family time. Browse the Internet with your kids; it can be lots of fun!

4. Make a rule that no one is to delete the history. The only reason anyone deletes the computer history is to hide something. On modern computers deleting the history does not speed the Internet up; it can actually slow things down.

5. Talk to your children about the dangers on the Internet. Communicating with your kids about Internet dangers will help them be aware and let them know that you know what is out there.

6. Put an Internet filter on your computer. Internet filters are not fool proof, but they will help your family from accidentally accessing objectionable material. NetPurity is a good, inexpensive Internet filter that will not slow down your computer. You can get it at www.netpurity.info.