“Internet Dangers for Kids”
By James Nsien2
http://james-nsien2.com
Here is lots of hysteria about the dangers of letting kids surf the net freely. That has caused many parents to restrict those activities. Well, it turns out that much of the concern really is hysteria. This New York Times article by David Pogue reviews the evidence. It turns out that predation over the Internet is no more likely than predation anywhere else and the big issues comes from children wanting to seek out ‘stranger contact.’ He also finds the evidence on other solicitations wanting.
This guide focuses on the following:
1. Data theft–stolen passwords, addresses, Social
Security numbers, credit card numbers, and other
financial information
2. Malicious software (also known as malware)–adware,
spyware, viruses, phishing scams
3. Inappropriate content–pornography, content focused
on violence, hate propaganda
4. Cyberbullying–bullying peers via instant messages,
social networking sites, online games
5. Predators–social networking sites, chat rooms
Data theft
Data theft occurs when a fraudster steals identifying information–names, addresses, financial data–from an unsuspecting victim and sells the information or uses it for personal gain. Keyloggers can skim Web users’ e-mail addresses and passwords by using software that surreptitiously captures the keystrokes they type, for example. Phishing scams use bogus e-mails and Web sites that seem legitimate but are actually designed to trick users into revealing personal and financial information. Computer criminals can then use the data to spy on or blackmail users, hijack their online accounts (including bank accounts), spread rumors, or operate under the victim’s identity.
Effects:
Although minors don’t risk as much financial loss as adults, they are in danger of exposure to interlopers aiming to hijack or share their online identity. Children are especially vulnerable because they’re often unable to identify and report data-snatching malware, and because they tend to be less cautious about sharing sensitive information with strangers and friends.
Solutions:
• Long, hard-to-guess passwords that include a mix of
numbers, letters, and characters
• Do not disclose passwords to friends and strangers
• Know how to identify malicious software
Malicious software
Malicious software–or malware–is the umbrella term for unsolicited software intended to annoy, destroy, or exploit. The category includes malicious adware, viruses, keylogging software, and backdoor Trojan programs, which allow attackers unauthorized access to and control over a user’s computer. Malicious software often loads through infected links and downloads when users click on ads or buttons designed to launch the programs. The links and buttons my be presented to an intended victim via phishing e-mail or on a malicious Web site. Malware can sometimes load invisibly and, in a worst-case scenario, allow others to control your computer. It’s a good idea to become familiar with security terms and what danger each security threat poses.
Effects:
Kids often value “free” over “safe.” Young surfers involved in link-sharing and file-sharing among peers are at higher risk of downloading infected programs. Malware distributors know kids seek out free software, music, and “cracks” (serial numbers) for pirating commercial games; they also know these same kids often trust links and e-mail attachments far more than they should.
Solutions:
• Teach kids to be extremely cautious when opening
downloads or links from friends and strangers
• Never click ads or answer unsolicited e-mails
• Teach kids to refrain from automatically clicking “yes”
buttons anywhere on the screen–read all text
carefully
• Download legitimate software only, and only from
trusted sites. Software is available that can help spot
the bogus software offers
• Kids should immediately report anything suspicious to
an adult
More…to Come!
James Nsien2
NCN Internet Marketing Services
Originally posted 2009-05-10 21:07:37. Republished by Blog Post Promoter