Browser Tip

Microsoft Explorer, Netscape and AOL, have features that let you review the history of web sites visited by your computer. Find out the sites your computer has visited on the Internet by using the Help or History feature of your browser. Use the help feature to learn what sites your computer has visited.

Resolving conflicts on-line

• Just hang up - leave the chat room
  
• "Your on-line conversation is disturbing."
  
• "My parents told me not to tell you that."
  
• "I don't give out that information."
  
• "I am reporting you to the authorities now."

Prevention Tips

• Place the computer in an area of the home where it is visible to the family. Predators seek young victims who will quietly and secretly chat with them.
  
• Use filtering software or Internet Service providers that seek to eliminate unwanted information, but recognize that there are ways to circumvent such filters. Filtering does not replace watchful and responsible parenting.
  
• Do not put any personal information into the "profile" area of any screen name. Offenders will attempt to develop relationships based on any information they can use.
  
• Use a screen name that does not identify gender or age. Preferential offenders target specific ages and genders.
  
• Enter into a safe-computing contract with your child so each of you understands the others expectations.
  
• Remember, when you chat with strangers, you never know who you are talking to. Every day is Halloween on the Internet.