Computer Spot

Your kids are the primary target of internet-based threats like computer viruses, adware, and spyware through the websites they frequently visit and misleading information they receive.

This is the reason why, as parents, it is important to discuss with your kids how to surf the net safely and away from any internet-based threats.

Downloads

Downloading files from unknown source is one of the most common reasons why the computer is infested with viruses and spyware.

Free games, flash animations, bundled emoticons, jokes, screen savers, and even free spyware removal downloads are potentially unsafe.

Teach your kids to assess the safety of the site before clicking on these ads or tell them to ask you first before making any moves.

Peer-to-Peer File Sharing

Free and downloadable peer-to-peer file-sharing software or p2p software has the potential to transmit internet-based threats from one computer to another. This is why it is equally important to make sure that your kids avoid using these programs.

The rule of the thumb is, never in any circumstances will you allow your kids to download programs from the internet without your permission. Ensure this by keeping their account “limited”.

Safe Sites

You can’t detect if a particular site contains internet-based threats on your own so if your kids are young enough to use kids-friendly web browsers, then it is advisable to do so.

These web browsers are downloadable – some are free while some come with a reasonable price. The good thing about these web browsers is that they only allow access to pre-determined and pre-scanned websites so your kids are assured good sites every time they use the internet.

Junk mails

If your kids have their own email addresses, make sure that you tell them the danger of downloading attachments from unknown senders for these often contain dangerous and malicious file that can corrupt your computer.

Misleading Dialog Boxes

You often see dialog boxes saying: “Your computer might be at risk!” or “Warning! You may have critical errors on your PC.” “Or your computer is running slowly.”

You may ignore these but your kids may not. So it is very, very important that you tell your kids that whenever they see any misleading dialog boxes appearing or just popped out from their screen, ignore them or call your attention immediately.

Explain to your kids that you tell them these not to limit their enjoyment on the internet but by making sure that they are protected from any harm these internet-based threats can bring.