The OneMinute Geek

Back-to-school tips

The Problem:

As the new school year begins, many students are expected to use computers for class projects. Your child probably already understands the usefulness of computers for research and homework, but it’s up to you to be sure your child also understands the potential hazards of computer use on the Internet. How can you be sure your child will be safe on line both at home and at school?

The Solution:

Be sure your children understand the hazards of computer use. Teach them the following three primary safety rules. These apply to both home and school computer use.

1. Never share any personal information with a stranger on line. A “stranger” is anyone your family doesn’t know. “Personal information” is anything about you, your family or your home. This includes your name, your address, and your phone number. And, never, ever tell anyone if you are alone at home.

2. Never download "free" audio and video. It is both illegal and potentially dangerous because malicious software could be hidden in the download. Such malware can wreak havoc with your computer and perhaps even steal your identity.

3. Treat each email message and special offer with a good dose of suspicion. Never open an attachment you are not expecting, even if it is from someone you know.

Once you’re sure your children understand these safety rules, it’s your responsibility to be sure they follow them. At home, you have a great deal of control. Use it.

1. Limit computer playtime and make it a privilege. Take it away for bad behavior, add to it as a reward.

2. Consider software such as Net Nanny (www.NetNanny.com) to help control your child's access to the Internet and deny access to certain types of websites.

3. Set up the computer in a public area of your house. Routinely notice what your child is doing on line.

4. Create an email account for your child and maintain control of its password. Screen out junk mail to be sure your child isn’t receiving solicitations or porn. Depending on your child’s experience with the wild world of the Internet, consider defining the people from whom your child can receive email.

5. Set up user logins and passwords to your computers to prevent anyone else from accessing your files, modifying settings, and installing software.

6. Store your user logins and passwords in a secure place away from your computer.

7. Review the games your child plays and restrict them as necessary. Some games are heavy into violence and sex. Instead of games, consider investing in a typing program. The other day I played with Garfield 's Typing Pal ( http://garfield.typingpal.com/index.asp ). It was a lot fun. Who knows, if you're a hunt and peck type like me, you might just benefit from it, too.

Safe computer use at school may depend on how techno-savvy your child’s school is. Find out what controls are in place at school, not only in the classroom and computer lab but also in the library. Share any concerns you have with teachers and school administrators. If necessary, involve other parents. Remember, the buck really stops with you. It’s up to you to be sure your child is safe on line.

James Kerr is President/CEO of SuperGeeks, a Hawaii-based computer service and repair company (www.supergeeks.net). Please feel free to send your questions, comments and suggestions to Mr. Kerr. He can be reached at kerr@supergeeks.net and 942-0773.