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Resources for parents, educators & communities.

NetSmartz: Online Safety for Middle School

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Internet Safety: Parents, Guardians & Community

Our resources for educators offer multiple ways to engage students, parents and communities in important lessons in digital citizenship and online safety. 

Empower your students to be safer online with our   free collection of teaching materials for families and students in grades K-12.  NetSmartz can help you create a dynamic and engaging Internet safety curriculum.

PowerPoint Presentations

NetSmartz offers free, multimedia internet safety presentations tailored for specific audiences — parents and communities, teens, tweens, and younger children. Our innovative presentations make use of online resources, videos, and expert tips to educate, engage, and empower children and adults to be safer on and offline.​

The presentations below are categorized by age of the intended target audience. However, we strongly encourage presenters to review the PowerPoint presentations before deciding which one to use and to consult with the hosts of your presentation (e.g. administration and/or support staff if presenting at a school) to select the most appropriate presentation for your audience. Depending on your audience’s previous exposure to internet safety and related topics, you may need to deviate from the age guidelines given below to find the most relevant information and format. Contact us at [email protected] with questions or for assistance.

For useful tips and recommended strategies for planning and delivering child safety presentations, be sure to check out the free trainings available on NCMEC Connect!

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Teaching Modern Safety with "Into the Cloud" Season 1 Grades K-2

Teaching Modern Safety with "Into the Cloud" Season 1 Grades 3-5

Teaching Modern Safety with "Into the Cloud" Season 2 Grades 3-5

Be Safer Online with NetSmartz: Grades K-2 (PC/Mac)

Being a Good Digital Citizen: Grades 3-5 (PC/Mac)

Written for tweens, teens, parents, educators, and law enforcement, these tip sheets offer guidance on navigating digital safety.​

Sextortion: What Parents Should Know

Being a Trusted Adult

Gaming Safely

Internet Safety at Home

So You Need Some Help...

Who is a "Trusted Adult"?

"Your Photo Fate" Video Discussion Guide

Cyberbullying Unplugged

How Do You Use Your NetSmartz? Tips for Teens

Parents' Guide to Smartphone Safety

Protecting Your Kids Online 2.0

Social Media Safety for Teens

Talking to Teens About Sexting

Think Before You Send

Your NetSmartz: Tips for Tweens

You Sent a Sext, Now What?

Classroom activities.

Additional material for the classroom, tailored for project-based learning and children with special needs.

Film Discussion Guide: What is Sextortion?

Film Discussion Guide: The Story of S.M.

Film Discussion Guide: The Story of H.M.

Peer Education & Mentoring Kit

Safety Pledges Using SymbolStix

Safety Stories

E-book: Delivery for Webster

E-book: The Princess's Password

E-book: Webster's Gecko Goof

Free online, on-demand trainings related to prevention education are available via NCMEC's online training portal, NCMEC Connect. View webinars, recorded live sessions, resources and best practices covering online exploitation, tips for teaching online safety, parent/guardian specific topics, and more! 

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Computer Safety and Security

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Computer Safety and Security

Jul 10, 2014

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Computer Safety and Security. 4 February 2014 Slides at: http://www.colket.org/genealogy/USF/. Email from Larry Page. Received 7 June 2013

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Computer Safety and Security 4 February 2014 Slides at: http://www.colket.org/genealogy/USF/

Email from Larry Page Received 7 June 2013 Dear Google users—You may be aware of press reports alleging that Internet companies have joined a secret U.S. government program called PRISM to give the National Security Agency direct access to our servers. As Google’s CEO and Chief Legal Officer, we wanted you to have the facts.First, we have not joined any program that would give the U.S. government—or any other government—direct access to our servers. Indeed, the U.S. government does not have direct access or a “back door” to the information stored in our data centers. We had not heard of a program called PRISM until yesterday.Second, we provide user data to governments only in accordance with the law. Our legal team reviews each and every request, and frequently pushes back when requests are overly broad or don’t follow the correct process. Press reports that suggest that Google is providing open-ended access to our users’ data are false, period. Until this week’s reports, we had never heard of the broad type of order that Verizon received—an order that appears to have required them to hand over millions of users’ call records. We were very surprised to learn that such broad orders exist. Any suggestion that Google is disclosing information about our users’ Internet activity on such a scale is completely false. Finally, this episode confirms what we have long believed—there needs to be a more transparent approach. Google has worked hard, within the confines of the current laws, to be open about the data requests we receive. We post this information on our Transparency Report whenever possible. We were the first company to do this. And, of course, we understand that the U.S. and other governments need to take action to protect their citizens’ safety—including sometimes by using surveillance. But the level of secrecy around the current legal procedures undermines the freedoms we all cherish.Posted by Larry Page, CEO and David Drummond, Chief Legal Officer

Syllabus Tips for Searching the Internet Instructor: Currie Colket Phone: Google Search for: colket 941 Classes 1:00 PM to 2:20 PM Lifelong Learning Academy: University of South Florida 7 January– Overview of Internet, Static & Dynamic Searches 14 January – Search Shortcuts; Advanced Static Searches 21 January – Google Magic; Google Books; Google Scholar; 28 January – Searching Images (Photos); Videos; Maps; Google Earth 4 February – Virtual Travel; Downloading; Safety & Security; 11 February – No Class 18 February – Dynamic Databases; Archive Grid; 25 February – Searching Translations; Researching in other languages Slides at: http://www.colket.org/genealogy/USF/

Computer Safety and SecurityOverview Not Covered Most Common Electronic Infections Why Worry??? Internet Safety & Security What Happens When Something Bad Happens Internet Safety/Security Quiz Questions

Security = Inconvenience

Not Covered Ergonomic Safety and Physical Safety

Most Common Electronic Infections - 1 • Malware- short for malicious software, is software designed to infiltrate a computer system without the owner's informed consent. The expression is a general term used by computer professionals to mean a variety of forms of hostile, intrusive, or annoying software or program code. • Malware includes computer viruses, worms, Trojan Horses, spyware, most rootkits, dishonest adware, crimeware and other malicious and unwanted software. • Viruses - Small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a Word or Excel program. Each time the program runs, the virus runs, too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc. • E-mail viruses - An e-mail virus moves around in e-mail messages, and usually replicates itself by automatically mailing itself to dozens of people in the victim's e-mail address book.

Most Common Electronic Infections - 2 • Worms - Small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well. • Trojan horses - A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing (e.g., a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it may erase your hard disk). • Rootkits- one or more programs designed to obscure the fact that a system has been compromised. An attacker may use a rootkit to replace vital system executables, which may then be used to hide processes and files the attacker has installed, along with the presence of the rootkit. Often, they are Trojans, thus fooling users into believing they are safe to run on their systems. Techniques used to accomplish this can include concealing running processes from monitoring programs, or hiding files or system data from the operating systems. • Rootkits may also install a back door by replacing the login mechanism with an executable accepting a secret login, allowing an attacker to access the system.

Most Common Electronic Infections - 3 • Spyware- type of malware that is installed on computers and collects information about users without their knowledge. The presence of spyware is typically hidden from the user. Typically, spyware is secretly installed on the user's personal computer. • Keyloggers - a form of Spyware capable of tracking Internet sites visited, passwords to financial accounts, etc. These are frequently installed by employers to keep track of corporate assets; Keyloggerscan be easily installed on public computers without owner knowledge to access passwords to financial accounts. • Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habits and sites that have been visited, but can also interfere with user control of the computer in other ways, such as installing additional software and redirecting web browser activity. Spyware is known to change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and/or loss of Internet or functionality of other programs. • Crimeware - a class of malware designed specifically to automate cybercrime.

Why Worry??? - Beware • Scammers trying to get personal info to steal you identity • Either by asking you for it • - Congratulations, you won the lottery • Or scanning your computer for it • - Searching your computer for SSN, DOB, IRS files, etc. • Or both (Date of birth over computer; SSN by phone) • Scammers try to take over your computer to send emails • Recent “IRS” email told people to download government form to resolve a question about unreported income. • Downloading the form actually gave control of the computer to the attacker, who immediately sent the request to everyone on the victim’s email list. • Infected computers (called BOTNETS) provide power for cybercrime • Evil doers, just trying to destroy stuff Scammers use deceptive tactics to get you to run their software Distrust messages that use scare tactics

Internet Safety/Security - 1 • 5 Ways the average user fails to protect computer • Surfing without adequate protection • Install anti-virus software and anti-spy software • Avast (avast.com) is a high quality anti-virus program • AVG (grisoft.com) for both virus and spyware protection • Windows Live OneCare; Norton AV and SpySweeper • Opening unsolicited communications • Never open anything from someone you don’t know • Beware of strange looking emails from friends • Close out uninvited pop-ups by clicking on “X” in corner • If you see something downloading you did not request, immediately close down your browser/email software • Neglecting Routine Maintenance • Normal use involves the accumulation of junk • Such programs cause slow starts and inefficient use • Perform a periodic cleanup, especially in startup menu

Internet Safety/Security - 2 • 5 Ways the average user fails to protect computer (continued) • Ignoring Updates • Don’t ignore legitimate update requests that pop up • Keep anti-virus and spyware software current • Promptly install all updates from Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, Java, etc. • Failing to Secure your Wireless Connection • Without security, your wireless connection is available to anyone within range of your wireless router. • The Wireless Range can be greater than you think • By adding a password to access your wireless router, you will thwart nearly all intruders. Adapted From: “Avoid these Computer Pitfalls” by Patty Harshbarger

Proactive Protections • Perform Weekly Backups • Backup Your Files on external hard drive/memory stick • Useful to use backup program in case of system crash • Useful to copy key files to external memory stick in case of accidental erasure • Do Not Store Identity Information on Computer • Store tax records and financial data on external memory stick • Purge your system of SSN, Birth Date, Account #s, etc. • Safeguard Passwords • Maintain a separate password for each system/account • Do not maintain passwords on main computer • Perhaps store on memory stick which is kept in safe • Do not Access Financial Data on Public Computers • Likely will have a keylogger

What Happens When Something Bad Happens • Symptoms of Something Bad Happening: • Friends complain of emails You Did Not Send. • Computer Locks Up Frequently and Crashes • Computer Seems unusually Slow • Can not Reboot Computer • Suggestions to Recover: • Reboot Computer, install latest Antivirus Updates, Scan • Clean up desktop and tasks on taskbar • Eliminate unneeded programs and data • Run Disk Cleanup (All Programs => Accessories => System Tools) • Run Disk Defragmentor (ditto) • Take computer to computer repair shop (if relatively new) • Buy a new computer (if relatively old)

Internet Safety/Security Quiz - 1 So, Would you download this file???

Internet Safety/Security Quiz - 2 So, Would you download this file???

Internet Safety/Security Quiz - 3 So, Would you download this file???

Internet Safety/Security Quiz - 4 So, Would you download this file???

Internet Safety/Security Quiz - 5 So, Would you download this file??? Never open any .zip file Can’t be scanned by virus software

Internet Safety/Security - 6 So, Would you Verify Your Information???

Internet Safety/Security - 7 So, Would you Give them your Password???

Internet Safety/Security – 8a So, Would you Click on this Link

Internet Safety/Security – 8b Actually a person By this name did Win the Lottery Can verify through many links Is the person sending The email the person Who won???? Not Likely

Internet Safety/Security – 8c Look at email Full Header Note addresed To X-apparently As a Bulk email Very dangerous To get involved with These folks

Computer Safety and SecurityQuestions

Future - Memex • DARPA Launches Project to Revolutionize Web SearchNextGov.com (02/10/14) Bob BrewinThe U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has launched its Memex project to improve Web searches by using topical domains rather than general subjects. DARPA says Memex will search "deep Web" content that commercial search engines overlook, and "will address the inherent shortcomings of centralized search by developing technology for domain-specific indexing of Web content and domain-specific search capabilities." DARPA aims to create technology to enable the discovery, organization, and presentation of domain-relevant content. In addition, the project aims to create advanced, automated Web-crawler software to access even sites with crawler defenses to improve domain-specific indexing and a domain-specific search engine. DARPA wants to use the technology to combat human trafficking that is facilitated by websites, forums, and chat rooms. Proposals for Memex are due April 8, and the project is expected to run for three years. • View Full Article

EU Pushes to Globalize Internet Governance EU Pushes to Globalize Internet GovernanceThe Wall Street Journal (02/11/14) Frances Robinson; Sam SchechnerThe European Commission on Wednesday is expected to suggest the implementation of "concrete and actionable steps" to globalize essential Web functions, such as the allocation of top-level domain names that are contractually linked to the U.S. government. The commission also will propose a timeline for internationalizing the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers in an effort to curb U.S. control of the Internet, according to a draft of the policy paper. "Large-scale surveillance and intelligence activities have...led to a loss of confidence in the Internet and its present governance arrangements," the paper says. The proposals are part of a years-long European effort to internationalize Internet governance as well as an effort to position Europe as an intermediary between the United States and other nations in the coming negotiations over Internet technical standards. The U.S. Commerce Department has said it is ready to discuss the future of Internet governance. "The U.S. government appreciates the thoughtful leadership of the Internet technical community on this important issue," said Assistant Secretary of Commerce Lawrence E. Strickling last month. "We want to work collectively to make multi-stakeholder governance more inclusive while maintaining the stability of the open and innovative Internet."View Full Article

Future Decentralize the Web Tim Berners-Lee: We Need to Re-Decentralize the WebWired.co.uk (02/06/14) Liat ClarkIn an interview, Sir Tim Berners-Lee called on the public to refocus on a decentralized, open Internet. "I want a Web that's open, works internationally, works as well as possible, and is not nation-based," Berners-Lee says. "What I don't want is a Web where the Brazilian government has every social network's data stored on servers on Brazilian soil." The U.S. National Security Agency and the UK's Government Communications Headquarters surveillance controversies have led to distrust among governments and individuals that is threatening the open Web, Berners-Lee warns. He says the hacker community has the responsibility of "pushing back on conventional government sometimes" to voice alternative viewpoints. Berners-Lee promotes an open Internet through his work at the Open Data Institute, the World Wide Web Consortium, and the World Wide Web Foundation. In addition, as a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, Berners-Lee helps his students build "new architectures for the Web where it's decentralized."View Full Article | Return to Headlines | Share      

NSA Is Collecting Less Than 30 Percent of U.S. Call Data NSA Is Collecting Less Than 30 Percent of U.S. Call Data, Officials SayThe Washington Post (02/07/14) Ellen NakashimaFormer and current U.S. officials say the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) gathers less than 30 percent of all domestic phone data due to an upsurge in the use of mobile phones. The percentage of data being collected is down from 2006, when a senior U.S. official said NSA was collecting "closer to 100" percent of Americans' phone records from several U.S. companies. However, the U.S. government reportedly wants to collect more data and is preparing to seek court orders to require wireless companies that currently do not hand over records to the government to do so. In addition, although the current percentage is down from earlier levels, it reportedly still accounts for billions of records that go back as far as five years. "For innocent Americans, 20 or 30 percent is still a significant number and will chill legitimate lawful activities,’’ says the American Civil Liberties Union's Christopher Soghoian. Meanwhile, U.S. government officials defend the program, noting that even collecting a quarter of the available data is valuable. "It's better than zero,” says NSA's Rick Ledgett. "If it's zero, there's no chance."View Full Article

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23 Great Lesson Plans for Internet Safety

Topics:   Digital Citizenship Privacy & Security Relationships & Communication Social & Emotional Learning

Help kids practice smart internet habits and stay safe online.

Educators' approach to internet safety in the classroom has changed as technology and our use of it continues to evolve. In the past, digital citizenship lessons on internet safety focused more on dos and don'ts, like do create safe passwords and don't talk to strangers online. While secure passwords are certainly important for technology users of all ages, and stranger danger is nothing to take lightly, most internet safety challenges are much more nuanced.

The best internet safety lessons recognize the complexity of these topics and help students build the critical-thinking skills and habits of mind to navigate the dilemmas they encounter. Below are the best internet safety lesson plans for students in grades K–12. See the full Common Sense K–12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum for lesson plans on additional digital citizenship topics.

Kindergarten Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How do you go places safely online? The power of the internet allows students to experience and visit places they might not be able to see in person. But, just like when traveling in the real world, it's important to be safe when traveling online. On this virtual field trip, kids can practice staying safe on online adventures.

First Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How can we be safe, responsible, and respectful online? From our head down to our toes, and our feet up to our nose, the Digital Citizens teach students how to be safe, responsible, and respectful online.  

How do you stay safe when visiting a website or an app? Staying safe online is a lot like staying safe in the real world. Using a fun traffic light activity, students learn how to identify "just right" content, giving them the green light to learn, play, and explore the internet safely.

Second Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

What kinds of information should I keep to myself when I use the internet? Staying safe online is a lot like staying safe in the real world. By helping a Digital Citizen sign up for a new app, students learn about the kinds of information they should keep to themselves when they use the internet -- just as they would with a stranger in person.

How are we all part of an online community? We are all connected on the internet! By learning the Rings of Responsibility, students explore how the internet connects us to people in our community and throughout the world. Help your students think critically about the different ways they connect with others, both in person and online.

Third Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How can a strong password help protect your privacy? Stronger, more secure online passwords are a good idea for everyone. But how can we help kids create better passwords and actually remember them? Use the tips in this lesson to help kids make passwords that are both secure and memorable.  

What makes a strong online community? Belonging to various communities is important for kids' development. But some online communities can be healthier than others. Show your students how they can strengthen both online and in-person communities by creating norms that everyone pledges to uphold.

Fourth Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

What information about you is OK to share online? It's in our students' nature to share and connect with others. But sharing online comes with some risks. How can we help kids build strong, positive, and safe relationships online? Help your students learn the difference between what's OK to share and what's best left private.

How can I be positive and have fun while playing online games, and help others do the same? Social interaction is part of what makes online gaming so popular and engaging for kids. Of course, online communication can come with some risks. Show your students how to keep their gaming experiences fun, healthy, and positive.

Fifth Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

What is clickbait, and how can you avoid it? The internet is full of catchy headlines and outrageous images, all to make us curious and get our attention. But kids don't usually realize: What you click on isn't always what you get. Show your students the best ways to avoid clickbait online.

How do you keep online friendships safe? Kids make friends everywhere they go -- including online. But are all these friendships the same? How can kids start online friendships and learn ways to stay safe? Help your students understand both the benefits and the risks of online-only friendships.

Sixth Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How can you protect yourself from phishing? Internet scams are part of being online today, but many kids might not be aware of them. How do we help our students avoid being tricked into clicking malicious links or giving out private information? Use this lesson to help kids avoid online identity theft and phishing schemes.

How do you chat safely with people you meet online? Games, social media, and other online spaces give kids opportunities to meet and chat with others outside the confines of their real-life communities. But how well do kids actually know the people they're meeting and interacting with? Help students consider whom they're talking to and the types of information they're sharing online.

Seventh Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How do companies collect and use data about you? Every time we go online, we're giving away information about ourselves. But just how much data are companies collecting from us? Hint: It's probably a lot more than we realize. Show your students these three tips on how to limit the data that companies collect.

How does social media affect our relationships? For most middle schoolers, being on social media can mean connecting with friends, sharing pictures, and keeping up to date. But it can also mean big-time distractions, social pressures, and more. Help students navigate the different feelings they may already be experiencing on social media.

Eighth Grade Internet Safety Lesson Plans

How can you protect your privacy when you're online? Kids share a lot of information whenever they go online -- sometimes on purpose, sometimes not. But do they understand that online privacy isn't just what they say and post? Help your students learn about their digital footprints and the steps they can take to shape what others find and see about them.

What are the risks and potential consequences of sexting? It's natural for teens to be curious about their emerging sexuality. But most middle schoolers aren't prepared for the risks of exploring this in the digital age. Help students think critically about self-disclosure in relationships and practice how they'd respond to a situation where sexting -- or a request for sexting -- might happen.

Ninth Grade Internet Safety Lessons

What are the benefits and drawbacks of online tracking? Many of us are aware that we're being tracked when we go online. It's one of the ways our favorite websites and apps know how to recommend content just for us. But how much information are companies actually collecting? And what are they doing with it? Digging into the details can help us make smart decisions about our online privacy and how to protect it.

How can you tell when an online relationship is risky? Getting to know someone online, without nonverbal cues or being able to see them, can be risky -- from simple misunderstandings to manipulation. Help students navigate and avoid these situations before they go too far.

Tenth Grade Internet Safety Lessons

What privacy risks do new technologies present, and how do we decide if they're worth it? New tech, like location services and smart devices, helps make our lives easier and opens opportunities that didn't exist before. But these innovations also come with a cost -- especially to our privacy. Help students consider the benefits and drawbacks of these new technologies -- and decide whether they're ultimately worth it.

How can I make sure my relationships are positive and healthy? "It's complicated" can describe many of our relationships with others, both romantic and otherwise. Add digital devices and social media to the mix, and things get complicated even further. Help students take the first step toward building healthy and rewarding friendships and romantic relationships, both online and off.

Eleventh Grade Internet Safety Lessons

At what age should people be allowed to use social media? Kids have to be at least 13 to sign up for most social media platforms. But we know that many tweens work around the restriction. In doing so they can connect with peers and have fun, but they're also vulnerable to a number of risks -- mainly overuse and challenges to their social-emotional health. Reflecting on age-appropriate content and behaviors can help students think through social media's effects on all of us, regardless of our age.

Twelfth Grade Internet Safety Lessons

Should the government have access to all your social media and cellphone data? Often, the more information we have, the better decisions we're able to make. The power of data can benefit both individuals and governments. But who can be trusted with the responsibility of having all this data? Can governments collect and use it fairly and without violating our privacy? Help students think through this question and become thoughtful influencers of data policy and practice.

Erin’s work focused on supporting students, teachers, and families for over a decade. As content director for family and community engagement at Common Sense, she provided parents and caregivers with practical tips and strategies for managing media and tech at home, and supports teachers in strengthening partnerships with families. Prior to her work with Common Sense, Erin taught public high school students and adult English learners in Kansas City. Her time as a National Writing Project teacher consultant nurtured her passion for student digital creation and media literacy. She has bachelor's degrees in English and secondary education and a master's degree in instructional design and technology. Erin loves to knit, read, hike, and bake. But who has time for hobbies with two young kids? In her free time these days, you'll find her hanging out at playgrounds, the zoo, and the beach with her family.

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Internet Safety for Kids  - Teaching Kids About Internet Safety

Internet safety for kids  -, teaching kids about internet safety, internet safety for kids teaching kids about internet safety.

Internet Safety for Kids: Teaching Kids About Internet Safety

Lesson 1: teaching kids about internet safety,  teaching kids about internet safety.

The Internet can be a wonderful place to learn, shop, play games, and talk to your friends. Unfortunately, there are also predators, identity thieves, and others online who may try to harm you. In order to be safe online, it's important for you and your kids to be aware of the dangers.

Many kids are confident that they know how to be safe online. However, there are a few reasons kids are often more at risk. They may not always think about the consequences of their actions, which can cause them to share too much information about themselves. Kids also are sometimes specifically targeted by cyberbullies or predators.

If you're a parent or guardian, you can help to keep your kids safe by talking to them about their Internet use , teaching them about online dangers , and learning everything you can about the Internet so you can make informed decisions.

About this tutorial

This tutorial is designed for any parent or guardian who wants to learn how to keep their kids safe online. You may want to review our Internet Safety tutorial first so you'll have a basic understanding of online safety. Throughout this tutorial, we'll link to other resources you can use if you want more information. We'll also link to some activities, videos, and other resources that are geared toward kids and teens. You may want to show these resources to your kids or even work through them together.

If you want to learn the basics of using the Internet, you can also check out our Internet Basics , Email 101 , and Beyond Email tutorials.

Understanding online dangers

In order to keep your kids safe, you'll need to know about the different types of online dangers that exist. For example, kids and teens may find inappropriate content on the Internet, such as pornography or obscene language. There is also a possibility of cyberbullying or cyberharassment from others online. This does not mean your child will encounter all of these threats. However, knowing about the dangers can help you and your kids make smart decisions online.

Review the interactive below to learn about some of the dangers kids can encounter online.

Malware is malicious software that is designed to damage your computer or steal your personal information . It includes viruses, spyware, and other types of software.

Malware is often secretly bundled with other software, and it can also infect email attachments.

Cyber-stalking

Cyber-stalking is any kind of harassment or threatening behavior that occurs online. It can happen through instant messaging, text messaging, email, or social networks. If the perpetrator is a child or teen, it is often called cyberbullying .

In the online world, piracy refers to illegally sharing copyrighted materials . This can include music, movies, TV shows, and software. For many kids, sharing files may seem innocent, but it can result in stiff penalties.

Phishing is a type of scam where the scammer tries to trick you into revealing your personal information . Usually, it involves an email, instant message, or website that is designed to look like it's from a legitimate company.

The Internet contains a lot of content you probably don't want your kids to see, including pornography, violent content, and vulgar language .

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs online , often through instant messaging, text messaging, email, and social networks.

Cyberbullies may be the same age as the victims, or they may be older. If the perpetrator is an adult, it is generally called cyber-stalking or cyberharassment .

Revealing too much

Many kids and teens like to post photos and share information about themselves. In some cases, this information can be used by online predators .

It's also possible for an embarrassing photo to damage a kid's or teen's reputation . This can affect their social life, and it may even come back to haunt them years later when they're applying for a job.

Other types of dangers

Whenever someone uses a computer, there is a risk of eye strain , wrist strain , and other injuries . You can help prevent this by limiting the amount of time your kids spend on computers and mobile devices. For tips on avoiding injury, read Creating a Safe Workspace in our Computer Basics tutorial.

There's also another reason to limit your kids' Internet use: Because people are spending more and more time online, Internet addiction is becoming a more significant problem. Internet use can be a good thing, but if it becomes an addiction it can affect a person's offline life.

Places where dangers can occur

It's important for kids to be careful whenever they're connected to the Internet because online dangers are not just limited to bad websites . Chat rooms, computer games, and even social networking sites can be risky. If your kids have mobile phones, they'll also need to be careful when texting or when accessing the Internet on their phones.

Review the slideshow below to learn about some of the places online where kids can be at risk.

Guidelines for keeping your kids safe

It can be difficult to keep your kids completely safe online. Even if you set up parental controls on your home computer, your kids will use many other computers that don't have parental controls. To keep your kids safe, you'll need to teach them to make good decisions online—even when you're not around.

Below are some general tips you can use when teaching your kids about online safety:

• Learn everything you can about the Internet. Being familiar with the Internet will not only help you understand the risks, but it will also help you talk to your kids.
• Set standards for what your kids can and cannot do online. It's important to make rules for your kids so they know what's expected of them. Don't wait until something bad happens to start creating guidelines.
• Teach your kids to keep personal information private . It's usually a bad idea to post personal information online such as phone numbers, addresses, and credit cards. If criminals gain access to this information, they can use it to harm you or your family.
• Teach your kids to use social networking sites safely. Sites like Facebook allow kids—and adults—to share photos and videos of themselves, as well as have conversations with friends and strangers. If your kids share something with friends, it's still possible for it to get into the wrong hands. Generally, they should only post something online if they're comfortable with everyone in the world seeing it.
• Encourage your kids to come to you if they encounter a problem. If your child gets into trouble online, you'll want him or her to come to you instead of hiding it. Keep in mind that your kids could accidentally encounter a bad site, even if they're doing everything right.
• Talk to your kids about Internet use. Talk to your kids regularly about how they use the Internet. If they're in the habit of talking to you about the Internet, they'll be more willing to come to you if there's a problem.

The Federal Trade Commission has videos and other resources you may find helpful. Watch the following video to learn more about talking to your kids about Internet safety.

Minimizing risks at home

If you have a home computer your kids use, there are some extra precautions you can take to make it safer. Remember that your kids will probably use many other computers, and these precautions won't keep them safe when they're not at home. Also, keep in mind that these are merely suggestions; depending on your parenting style and your kids' ages, you may choose not to use all of them.

• Keep the computer in the living room or in another common area. By putting the computer in a common area of the house, you can reduce the chance that they'll talk to strangers or visit inappropriate websites. For teens, you may choose to give them more freedom about where they use the computer (especially if they have their own computers).
• Install antivirus software. Viruses and other malware are a risk for any computer (although Macs are slightly safer). To protect your computer, you can install antivirus software such as BitDefender or Norton .
• Use a kid-friendly search engine. Regular search engines may return results with inappropriate content you don't want your kids to see. However, there are some search engines that are designed to only return kid-friendly results (although there is still the possibility of inappropriate results getting through). Examples include KidTopia and KidRex.org .
• Use parental controls. Windows and Mac OS X allow you to add parental controls to user accounts. These include time limits , website restrictions , and controlling which applications can be opened . You can also buy parental control software like Net Nanny , which has versions for Windows and Mac.

Creating an Internet safety contract

Once you've established Internet guidelines, you may want to put them in writing. You can create an Internet safety contract your kids can sign, and then you can keep a copy of it near the computer.

There are also premade contracts you can download and print. One example is the Family Online Safety Contract , which you can download from the Family Online Safety Institute . In addition to a contract, it includes a contract for parents, which contains guidelines you may find helpful.

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Online safety resources and research

Discover online safety resources; learn top tips for internet safety; and work to prevent and combat online bullying and harassment.

Expand your online safety knowledge

Get information and resources to keep yourself and others safe online.

Individuals

Access to the seemingly limitless information and opportunities on the web often comes with some risk to your computer. These resources offer the essentials for protecting your personal information online and keeping your devices safe from unwanted threats.

Defend your devices against internet dangers

Making safer financial transactions online

Online fraud: Your guide to prevention, detection, and recovery

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Top tips for internet safety at home

Protecting yourself from identity theft online

Protecting yourself from phishing scams

Whether you’re concerned about little ones, tweens, or teens, you’ll find easy-to-follow guidance that addresses their pressing online safety issues, including online bullying and the use of games and mobile phones. These resources share quick internet safety tips, and ideas for improving communication and helping to protect your family online.

Family Safety Toolkit

Xbox Gaming Safety Toolkit

Top tips for online safety PowerPoint

Stay alert to online grooming

Detecting online grooming

Responding to online bullying and harassment

Teach kids to identify misinformation and hate speech

Protecting "tweens" and teens online

Let's get real about sexting

Risks of sexting

Let’s talk online safety with kids

Preventing online bullying: What companies and others can do  

Teach kids mobile phone safety

Play it safe when gaming online

Help young people stand up to online bullying 

Protecting young children online

Young adults

Between websites and mobile apps, there are more ways to be connected and share information than ever before. These resources offer quick ways for you to take charge of your digital footprint.

Take charge of your digital life

Safer online socializing

Take charge of your online reputation

Top tips for internet safety (for students)

As educators, you can teach students safer and healthier online habits and practices. Take a few minutes to learn some easy tips for talking to your students about online safety.

Video resources

Explore our Online Safety YouTube video playlists

Teens and online safety

Stay sharp on internet safety

Stop. Think. Connect.

Research survey

Explore this year’s Global Online Safety Survey that examined negative behaviors and experiences of ten different online risks across five categories and 16 countries.

Internet Safety Presentations for Parents & Students

Our Dynamic Style is Engaging, Practical, and Fun

Internet Safety Expert Presentations

Our Internet safety experts travel nationwide to deliver in-person presentations to schools, religious groups and corporations to help educate and inform on the dangers facing our children in this mobile connected world. Our parent presentations are filled with real life examples and practical advice on how to parent and guide children to keep them safe.  Our student Internet safety presentations emphasize storytelling, practical examples and encourage peer-to-peer interaction to help reinforce concepts in a way that children can relate to and retain.

Internet Safety Presentation and Workshop Philosophy

We believe in the importance of parent-child dialogue regarding technology. Therefore, we structure our Internet safety presentations and workshops for students and parents in such a way as to facilitate conversations at home. During the day, we will lead the Internet safety presentation or workshop for students that relate to the devices, software, websites and applications they are using (both in school and at home) and specifically touch upon cultural implications and the potential harms that come with Internet usage. We discuss a variety of issues including social media, over-exposure, online predators and cyberbullying – just to name a few. That same day, we will facilitate an evening Internet safety presentation for parents and teach them about how today’s children are interacting online, the positive and negative implications of technology, and how we can parent with more understanding of technology for our families. All presentations and workshops are highly interactive and encourage dialogue among participants.

What you can expect

Cyber safety expert facilitator.

Our workshop facilitators have a wealth of experience working with both students and parents, presenting both relevant and current information with a fun and interactive presentation style.

Dynamic & Energetic Speakers

Each of our Internet safety experts are dynamic, energetic and fun.  Our speakers know how to keep their audience engaged and encourage interaction so the audience gets the most out of the presentation.

Flexible Scheduling

Our student and parent Internet safety presentations typically last 45, 60 or 90 minutes in length, depending on the school’s preferred scheduling.

Customized to meet your needs

If there is a current event or certain topics that you want us to emphasize or omit, we are flexible and can change our Internet safety presentations accordingly.

Interactive with audience

We pride ourselves on interaction. We enjoy getting students and parents involved in the conversation, telling us their stories, asking questions, and participating in some activities. Our facilitator will encourage participation by telling relevant stories and conducting role plays to help kids and parents easily understand the content being presented.

We realize both parents and students have a variety of questions concerning the Internet, technology, and how it all relates to the way we live. Therefore, we guarantee time for workshop participants to ask questions of our expert facilitator.

Who is this for?

Schools are ideal institutions to host our student and parent workshops as children’s technology use continues to rise exponentially.

Faith-based Institutions

Faith-based institutions such as churches and synagogues are places where families congregate, have community, and support one another. Our student workshops work very well with youth groups and we will also meet with parents in a corresponding workshop.

Corporations

Corporations engage with us to deliver our Internet safety presentations as a benefit to help educate their employees or as an incentive for their top clients. What better gift to give than the protection of children?

Contact Us to Schedule a Presentation

Organization

Preferred Dates

About Cyber Safety Consulting

Cyber Safety Consulting is an expert in the field of Internet safety, having developed and delivered programming focused on online safety and digital citizenship for students, parents and educators nationwide.

CASE, our Internet safety curriculum, is a unique approach for engaging students and parents of the dangers online.

Connect with us online!

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Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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Cybersecurity Awareness Program Parent and Educator Resources

When your child wants to go over to a new friend’s house, you probably ask questions. Who else is going? Will the parents be home? We should be having the same discussion with our kids about their Internet use. Which websites are okay to visit? What kind of information is acceptable—and more importantly, what is not—to share online? Below, find resources and materials to help you start the discussion with your kids or students.

General Education Resources

• Learn how to avoid scams, protect your identity, and secure your computer with tips from the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) OnGuard Online  and visit their Protect Kids Online webpage.
• Get videos, presentations, and other educational resources for educators and parents to discuss cybersecurity with kids and teens from NetSmartz, a program of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
• Find tips and resources on how to become a good digital parent from the Family Online Safety Institute .
• Start an internet safety dialogue with ebooks, events, articles, and more from ConnectSafely , iKeepSafe , and Savvy Cyber Kids .
• Protect yourself and your family from online fraud with tips from Fraud.org , a project of the National Consumers League.

School Resources

• Integrate cyber education into your home or classroom through the Cyber Security Awareness Volunteer Education (C-SAVE) program’s scenario-based curriculum for K-12 students.
• Request an Internet safety presentation for your school or community through Project iGuardian , an effort between the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) directorate, NCMEC, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force .

Safeguarding Your Devices and Reporting Resources

• Protect yourself, your family, and your devices with tips and resources from the National Cyber Security Alliance .
• Follow ten simple, customized steps from the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Smartphone Security Checker to secure your mobile phone.
• File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center or your State Attorney General's Office  if you or members of your family have been victims of online crime.
• Report information regarding possible sexual exploitation of children through the NCMEC CyberTipline or by calling 1-800-843-5678. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Resource Materials

Related resources, secure by design alert: eliminating os command injection vulnerabilities, cisa cybersecurity advisory committee (csac) meeting resources, exploring memory safety in critical open source projects, emergency services sector cybersecurity best practices.

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Home | Internet Security | Internet Safety Guide for Kids

Internet Safety Guide for Kids

SafeWise experts have years of firsthand experience testing the products we recommend. Learn how we test and review . 

Keeping your kids safe online can seem like a huge task. But you don’t have to go it alone. SafeWise has identified the top online threats to kids and tips for keeping kids safe.

Identity Theft Prevention for Parents: Safeguard Your Child's Future  

Safewise safety advisor Pete Canavan explores the concept of identity theft, its potential consequences, and how parents can take proactive steps to protect their children. Watch for new articles weekly with valuable advice to help you secure your children's future.

Top online threats for kids

• Compare top internet safety products

How to protect your kids from cyberbullying

How to protect your kids from online predators.

• How to protect your kids from inappropriate content online

Video: Online learning internet safety

How to keep your kids safe during online learning, how much is your state doing to keep kids safe online.

• Data: State-by-state online safety laws
• More resources for online safety

We’ve put together a free online safety contract that you can print out and share with your kids. Use it to help build a conversation around online safety and your expectations.

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There are a number of potential dangers in cyberspace, but these are the top online security risks that most kids face.

1. Cyberbullying: More than 36% of kids age 12–17 have been cyberbullied at some point in their life, and nearly 15% have bullied someone else online. Cyberbullying is any aggressive, threatening, or mean-spirited activity conducted via electronic communication (email, social media posts, text messages, etc.). Girls are more likely to be the victims of cyberbullying, and more boys admit to bullying others online. ¹

2. Online predators: Adults who use the internet to entice children for sexual or other types of abusive exploitation are considered online predators. Child victims can be as young as 1 or as old as 17. When it comes to online enticement, girls make up the majority (78%) of child victims—while the majority (82%) of online predators are male. And 98% of online predators have never met their child targets in real life. ²

3. Exposure to inappropriate content: Inappropriate content is one of the most common online threats that kids encounter. Everything from vulgar language and hate speech to graphically violent or sexual images can have a harmful effect on an impressionable child. Over 55% of tweens (kids age 10–12) have been exposed to violent content on the internet, and nearly 60% have come across sexually explicit words or images. ³

4. Identity theft: While this is classically thought of as an adult issue, children are clean slates, making them the perfect targets for identity thieves . Without knowing what to avoid or mistrust online, your kids could give their own important information over to bad actors who could tank their credit long before they're able to open up their own lines.

NOTE: For the purposes of this guide, we’re focusing on the earliest prevention possible. While these internet safety tips for kids and parents can be applicable to anyone, we’ve selected steps to help protect children from ages 5 through 12.

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We like smartwatches to help keep kids and parents in touch, but your child's device might not be welcome in the classroom . Schools are concerned about distraction, privacy, and cheating.

Be sure to talk to your child's teacher or principal before sending them to school with a smartwatch. And you can help educators out—use parental controls (it's called "Do Not Disturb" on the TickTalk 4 ) to shut down the device during class. 

Cyberbullying is a form of online harassment that can come from in-person peers or new people online. The exact signs of cyberbullying may look different from child to child, but red flags include apprehension or secrecy around digital activities, changes in mood or interests, and withdrawal from normal activities or friends. 

1. Learn the tactics: Fake profiles, catfishing, blackmail, none of these tactics are off-limits for the worst cyberbullies. Whether your child tells you about the harassment or not, it helps to know how to identify cyberbullying in the wilds online.

2. Talk about it: Have ongoing discussions with your child and ask about websites, games, and friends they meet online. Be sure they understand what cyberbullying is and what it looks like when someone crosses the line. They should know that you're a safe person to talk to when they encounter something uncomfortable or upsetting online.

3. Keep a watchful eye:  Parental control apps like Bark are especially helpful for keeping an eye on your kids' smartphone and tablet activity. For younger kids, consider using a shared email account for online profiles until they're old enough for their own.

4. Set boundaries:  Put time limits on screen time. Include all online activities—from homework to playing games and surfing the web. Restrict social media access and email accounts, and set rules for any messaging, texting, etc. Let your kids know you’ll be checking in regularly. Be prepared to renegotiate boundaries as your child gets older or starts to use new technology. 4

5. Build a network (IRL):  They don’t say it takes a village for nothing. The more people you have looking out for your kid online, the more likely you are to keep them safe. Know your kids’ friends and their parents. Enlist support from school, sports, and church leaders.

6. Be prepared to respond:  Don’t wait until the heat of the moment to come up with your game plan. In case your kid does get bullied online, learn what the proper responses are so you can keep your emotions in check and help your child deal with what they’re going through.

Steps to take if your child has been bullied

Pay attention: Look for signs of cyberbullying, like spending more time online or texting, hiding the screen from others, emotional responses to online interactions, and sadness or seclusion.

Ask questions: Gently ask your child what’s going on and how they feel about it. Find out if they’ve responded to the bully and what that response was.  

Your child may feel frightened, angry, sad, or even betrayed if the bully is someone they trusted. Let them know it’s okay to feel whatever they’re feeling.

Block and report the bully: Immediately block (or “unfriend”) the abuser. Use tools like site blockers and privacy settings as extra layers of protection.

Alert the website, app, and email administrators to the bully. Most social media platforms offer options to report a user or flag dangerous posts. If appropriate, report the abusive activity to school or law enforcement officials.

Assess the damage and get support: If your child’s emotional response is extreme and protective measures don’t seem to help, seek the help of a licensed mental health professional.

Talk to other adults who can help protect your child (other parents, teachers, school administrators, coaches, etc.) and bolster your child’s positive friendships.

What to do If your child is the bully

Watch for signs: Cyberbullies show signs of their harassment just like kids on the receiving end. If your child seems to have a falling out with old friends or suddenly has a new friend group. If they're obsessing over social media and being online, if they're opening multiple accounts on the same platform, these can all point to your child harassing others. 

Break the ice: Broach the topic with your child in a firm but open-minded way. They may become defensive or angry, but it's important to listen and remember that they may be in pain themselves. Be clear about the consequences of cyberbullying and harassment and offer help in the form of counseling or other resources. 

Step in: After your discussion, it's time to enforce hard boundaries around their online behavior. Parental control apps can help you monitor their online activity, limit their screen time, and block apps and websites where they previously harassed others. 

Offer support: Cyberbullying can be harmful to everyone involved. Along with your own child's mental health and habits, offer support to any children your kids may have hurt. Reach out to mental health professionals for counseling to help your child work through feelings that lead them to this behavior. 

Online predators come in many forms. Whether they're after money, information, or worse. Many can be charming and friendly, earning  your child's trust gradually. Protecting your kids from malicious behavior online requires you and your kids to know the risks and red flags that point to scammers and predators.

1. Be clear about the danger: While it can be hard to talk to your kids about scary subjects like online predators, it's important that they know what's out there.

Discussing what behavior to expect from new and familiar people can keep them safe. Fostering a healthy suspicion of new people online can keep them skeptical if a friendly stranger reaches out to them. 

2. Guide online behaviors: Don't let them go online or use social media alone until they know the basics of online etiquette.

Without that foundation, they may share personal information, images, and details with strangers, putting them at risk. Boundaries like asking permission before accepting or sending friend requests are a good start for staying involved in their online life.

3. Rein in digital cameras: With cameras widely available on all our devices, it's important to monitor what kind of images your kids send and receive online.

Limit their access to a camera until they have a firm understanding of what images are safe to share and receive online.

4. Monitor online activity: Use a shared email account for your kids' online profiles, and if your family has a desktop, keep it in a common room.

Screen time limits and blocked websites for their own devices can keep them in safe online areas or at least under your digital wing until they're old enough to go online on their own. 

5. Keep kids out of dangerous places: Talk about the risks of direct messaging and social networks, and set up rules and time limits if you allow your kids to use them. Always follow age restrictions for websites and apps.

6. Don’t let your guard down: Unfortunately, even “safe” places still require vigilance. There are kid-focused games and websites where predators may pose as children.

Consider limiting your kids to online communication with people they've only met in person to narrow any risk.

Steps to take if your child has been targeted online

• Cut off communication with the predator.
• Change online credentials, including screen names, usernames, and passwords.
• Save screenshots or copies of messages and images from the predator.
• Report the activity to website administrators and law enforcement.
• Seek professional help for your child as appropriate.
• Let your child know it’s not their fault.

Safety tips for kids

• Don't share personal information like addresses, phone numbers, or credit card information online.
• Ask an adult before sending or accepting friend requests and messages from strangers.
• Be picky about the photos you share online. You can't control what other people do with them or who they may share them with.
• Be suspicious of links, attachments, and gifts strangers send online. If they sound too good to be true, they probably are. 
• Never agree to meet strangers alone IRL, even if they claim to be a kid too.
• Don't hesitate to ask your parents or another trusted adult for help. You may feel embarrassed at first, but they can help you more than anyone.

How to protect your kids from inappropriate online content

1. Teach kids how to navigate the internet: "Mature" websites featuring violent or sexual content can often be a gateway to malware, viruses, and other cyberthreats. Talk about proper online etiquette, how to enter safe search terms, how to identify a secure website (https), and when to ask an adult for help.

2. Let kids know what to watch for: Teach them that bad stuff can come from many sources, including email and direct messages. Talk about inappropriate websites, pop-up ads, and when and where it’s okay to click on something.

It also helps to know a little about their world too. Learn more about their favorite games and activities popular with your kids and their classmates. If you find these things inappropriate, it's worth talking to your kids about why you're concerned. 

3. Explain email safety: Make sure kids know not to click on things or open attachments in emails and not to respond to messages from people they don’t know. Have them ask an adult before they download anything.

Phishing affects everyone online, so be sure you and your kids know the basics.

4. Set up firewalls and content blockers: Use the built-in safety applications that come on your devices and add more to be extra safe. Block all websites that aren’t rated safe for children. Use a content filter or firewall that is designed to protect children from harmful content.

5. Be prepared: Have a plan in place in case your child is exposed to graphic content online. Know what the proper responses are so you can focus on helping your child manage their feelings.

Steps to take if your child has been exposed to inappropriate content

How to protect your kids from identity theft

Whether through social media, gaming, or exploring the web, around one in every 50 children has their identity stolen online. 5  Identity theft at a young age can damage your child's chances for loans, credit cards, and other opportunities as an adult. 

Warning signs of child identity theft

Just like adult identity theft, there will be signs if your child's identity is stolen .

Watch the mail for credit card bills and pre-approvals under your child's name. Some parents have even received notices from the IRS!

If the thieves are especially bad, your child's name may be passed on to debt collectors. 6

What can parents do about child identity theft?

Our resident cybersafety expert, Pete Canavan, recommends a few proactive measures. 

Start by signing your children up for credit monitoring service (Canavan recommends LifeLock ). Be sure to put a freeze on all three credit reporting agencies and bank account systems with ChexSystems. Finally, freeze utility accounts if they exist with National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange . 

Be sure to store any of your child's important documents in a safe place and shred the ones they don't need anymore. When your child passes along an old electronic device to a sibling, or friend, sells or donates it, be sure it's been completely wiped of any identifying information. 

And be sure your kids understand the gravity of what's at stake when you trust them online. They need to demonstrate mature online habits, knowing what is trustworthy and what isn't before they explore the web on their own. 

Subscribe to our YouTube channel and learn how to protect your home, loved ones, and belongings.

Whether you and your kiddos are internet pros or getting online for the first time, we’ve got the tips you need to navigate learning online safely.

Tips for safe online learning 

Just because your child goes online for school , it doesn’t mean there still aren’t potential dangers lurking. These best practices will minimize your child’s exposure to online risks no matter what platform or software their school is using.

1. Make sure websites are secure

You can instantly tell if any website is safe by looking for one letter: “s.” Every website address starts with the letters “http,” but you know a site is secure when you see “https.” That means the website itself is taking measures to keep users and their information secure while they use the site.

If you’re directed to any websites for school or entertainment that don’t have that extra “s” at the beginning of the address, steer clear.

2. Guard personal information

This can get tricky when your child needs to be identified for schoolwork or classroom discussions, but personal details need to be guarded closely.

Chances are, your child probably already has a student identification number. Those kinds of identifiers are a great way to protect personal details from leaking on the internet.

None of the following information should be used to identify your child in class, on a list of posted grades, or in an online discussion.

• Full first and last name
• Social security number
• Phone number

Your little one should also have a secure username and password to log into courses, lectures, and assignments.

3. Set up parental controls

You don’t have to purchase parental control software to protect your child during online learning. There are already a lot of helpful tools built into your device hardware, software, and internet browser.

Find tutorials here to help you maximize built-in privacy settings and content blockers.

• Parental controls for Apple products
• Parental controls for Google Play
• Parental controls guide for Chromebook
• Content restrictions for Windows 10 and Xbox One
• Parental controls for YouTube Kids
• Content filters on SafeSearch for Google
• Parental controls on Amazon FreeTime
• Parental controls on Netflix

If you want the extra reassurance of  parental control software , we tested a bunch of them and picked our favorites. Almost every brand we recommend has a  free version available , so you can probably upgrade from built-in parental controls without reaching for your wallet.

4. Keep everything updated

It seems too simple to be so effective, but one of the best ways to keep kids safe online is to make sure that all devices, software, and firmware are up to date. 

Updates can seem like a pain, but one of the biggest reasons companies come out with new versions is to deploy security patches that address the most recent and innovative threats out there. 

Plus, an outdated operating system or old version of software can render your parental controls and privacy settings useless. 

"The website Teacherspayteachers is a wealth of printable and electronic teaching resources that are legit and vetted very well." Kirsten Bergh, Online Elementary School Teacher

Prepare your kids for success with online safety tools

• Cybersmart Detectives
• Digital Citizenship Resources
• Family Contract for Online Safety
• Download our Video Chat Safety Guide

Tools to make the most of stay-at-home learning

Printable Daily Schedules

Library of Congress Webinars

Kids' Authors Read-Alouds

Google Classroom

Lexia Core5 Reading

Jumpstart Academy

Noodle Tools

ProdigyGame Math

To grade each state, SafeWise looked at laws for both sexting and cyberbullying. 7,8  Points were assigned to states based on the types of laws currently on the books and the consequences for violating those laws. If a state has a law proposed, partial points were granted. School policies and consequences were also factors. Letter grades were determined based on the total points, with higher points earning higher grades.

State-by-state online safety laws

	C
	C
	B
	A
	B
	B
	A
	C
	A
	A
	B
	C
	B
	B
	C
	A
	C
	B
	D
	C
	B
	C
	C
	C
	C
	D
	B
	C
	D
	B
	C
	B
	C
	B
	C
	B
	C
	A
	C
	C
	A
	C
	A
	A
	B
	C
	C
	C
	D
	D

More resources to help with online safety for kids

This guide is the perfect starting point to make sure you know the basics for keeping kids safe on the internet. But online threats are constantly changing, and cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated. To help you stay ahead of the curve, here are some of the resources we recommend.

Internet safety classes and workshops

• Cyber Safety Cop

State and local internet safety resources

• Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program: State Chapter Directory
• Office for Victims of Crime: Providers/Community Leaders
• D.A.R.E.: Internet Safety

Tools to keep kids safe online

• FBI Safe Online Surfing (for students and teachers, 3rd through 8th grade)
• The Best Parental Control Apps and Software
• Guide to Parental Controls
• Internet Safety 101: Rules ‘N Tools Checklist (for parents and educators)

More educational and support resources

• KidsHealth Internet Safety (for parents, kids, teens, and educators)
• Internet Matters e-Safety Advice
• Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr.: A Simple Plan to Protect Young Minds
• SafeKids.com: Internet Safety by Age
• Common Sense Media: Privacy and Internet Safety
• Is TikTok Safe? Here’s what you need to know
• What Is ChatGPT and Is It Safe for Kids?

Related articles on SafeWise

• iOS vs. Android Security: Which One Keeps Your Child Safer Online?
• What Age Should Kids Get a Phone?
• Best Identity Theft Protection
• 31 Surprising Identity Theft Statistics
• Best Antivirus for Android Devices
• Best Antivirus and Malware Software
• Best Password Manager for All of Your Devices
• 10 Cybersecurity Tips for Shopping Online
• Dangerous Apps for Kids
• Justin Patchin, Cyberbullying Research Center, “ 2019 Cyberbullying Data, ” July 2019. Accessed April 11, 2023.
• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, “ The Online Enticement of Children: An In-Depth Analysis of CyberTipline Reports ,” 2017. Accessed April 11, 2023.
• Haley Zapal, Bark, “ 2018 Children and Teen Cyber Fact Sheet ,” January 2019. Accessed April 11, 2023.
• Kate Muir and Adam Joinson, Frontiers in Psychology, " An Exploratory Study Into the Negotiation of Cyber-Security Within the Family Home ," March 2020. Accessed April 11, 2023.
• Javelin Strategy, " Child Identity Fraud: A Web of Deception and Loss ," Accessed July 2024. 
• Norton LifeLock, " Child identity theft: How to help protect your child ," Accessed July 2024
• Sameer Hinduja and Justin Patchin, Cyberbullying Research Center, “ State Sexting Laws ,” November 2018. Accessed April 11, 2023.
• Sameer Hinduja and Justin Patchin, Cyberbullying Research Center, “ State Cyberbullying Laws ,” January 2021. Accessed April 11, 2023.

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