Unfortunately, children are not always safe on the internet. Children who surf the web and post personal information are at risk of being victimized. Potential abusers may try to establish relationships with children via the internet, even posing as children themselves.

Ninety percent of child abusers know the children they molest. [1] Over time they have developed a trusting relationship with their victim. This same relationship building between child and abuser can occur online, but it is less likely to be noticed by parents.

Talk with your children about safe and unsafe practices on the web, and monitor their activity closely. The web is a rapidly changing technology that may provide new opportunities for abusers, it is important to stay informed about your children’s online practices. When we keep watch of our children’s online activities we are not invading; we are protecting.