THE INTERNET is probably the greatest technological invention of the 20th century. It is no doubt the perfect place to learn new things, to get e-mail and to search for information that is available at your fingertips in minutes. And of course, ask any teenager what the most thrilling part is - Chatting.
Chat rooms are as common now as the telephone was a few years ago, and today the phone lines are heating up as you can sit in your living room and chat with persons from as far away as Ecuador. The good thing is that inhibitions are let loose, new friends are gained and shy persons are able to come out of their shells. The bad news, the paedophilles, prostitutes, rapists and murderers who disguise themselves and lure innocent children into situations some transcending the 'networld.
The Internet savvy among us have had bad experiences from 'penfriends' turning out to be stalkers, boyfriends turning into women and schitzos asking if you are 'feeling colours inside.'
Believe it or not there are ways for strangers to get your name, age and all that other information you submitted to your mail server if there's a mere slip of a key on your side trust no one.
Already, cyberstalking occurs regularly in America, and there are fears it will spread to Britain and you know where's next. It's often hard to trace cyberstalkers as they pose as the most innocent persons talking your kids into going out with them - many confrontations ending violently and sadly.
Parents note:
Chances are, whether you know it or not, your children have access to a computer with Internet hook-up either at home, at a friend's house, at school or at the library.
It is important that you alert your children to the dangers of Internet predators. Take a few minutes to discuss these matters with your children, otherwise, you could spend a lifetime regretting you didn't.
Tell your children not to give personal information to strangers on the Internet.
Let them know that they should not arrange meetings with persons met while surfing.
Good chatting!
