Are we cyber-safe?

THERE ARE basically two ways to filter children's access to the Net. One is through installing suitable software in one's PC and the other is to subscribe to an ISP that provides the facility. Both methods have their advantages. You have more control over what is and is not filtered when you have filtering software in your PC. At the same time, subscribing to family-friendly ISPs makes matters simple, though they take away much of your control. They handle all the configurations and updates, leaving you hassle-free.

* Blocking software - It uses a 'bad site' list and blocks access to these sites. Some software companies allow users to customise their list by adding or removing from it. Others are secretive about their blocked sites. The lists of blocked sites need to be updated regularly. However, the fact there is blocking software available is no comfort, because no matter how frequently the lists are updated, the number of websites published daily far exceeds the ability of software companies to review the sites and categorise them for 'bad site' lists.

* Filtering software - It fills the gap between the reviewed 'bad sites' and the mass of other websites on the Net. It allows a site to be reviewed 'on the fly' by scanning it for certain key words that ought to be blocked. Filtering products block sites containing these keywords, alone or in context with other keywords.

The disadvantage of this software, especially those that use stand-alone keywords, is that, very often, harmless sites are blocked just because a supposedly 'wrong' word is used.

* Outgoing filtering - This software helps parents prevent a child from sharing personal information that the child might be subtly seduced into revealing. The particular software cannot be programmed and every time an attempt is made to reveal that information, it merely shows up as 'xxx.'

* Monitoring and tracking - This allows parents to track where their children go online and how much time they spend there and how much time they spend offline on the computer, playing games, for instance.

Net Nanny, Cyberpatrol, Cybersitter and Surfwatch are some of the software that serve as effective blocking, filtering and monitoring devices. Apart from these there are also junkbusters, and cyberNOTS which are useful blocking and filtering software.

But though such software is available there are several loopholes.

While dealing with children and their safety in cyberspace, it is vital for parents and the people in charge of content to note that their levels of maturity, understanding and cognition vary as they grow up and this, in turn, will affect the manner in which they relate to this medium.

Age 2 to 4 - This is the age when children start interacting with the computer and it is obviously in the presence of a parent, sibling or teacher. There are various sites today that are appropriate for this age group, but children at this stage are not mature to explore them alone for they are still getting familiar with the machine.

Age 4 to 7 - Children begin to explore the computer independently, but it is important for parents to consider restricting access only to appropriate sites. It is important for parents to be absolutely sure of safety tips. The idea is not so much to avoid dangerous sites but to make sure that children have a pleasant time.

Age 7 to 10 - This is the age when children begin to look outside the family for social recognition. The building of peer pressure starts now.

Therefore, this is when children begin to seek greater independence. But, though they could be encouraged to explore the Net on their own, they cannot be left alone and it is important that parents guide them.

Age 10 to 12 - Children start experiencing more independence at this stage and simultaneously start using the Internet. It is essential to help them manage their independence and time spent on the Net. It is wise to set limits and make sure they engage in other activities as well.

Usually, it is by the age of 12 that abstract reasoning starts and children form their own opinions. They will begin to rely on friends etc. for opinions and the like and it is essential to make them understand that not everything on the Net or everything their peers tell them is good or worthwhile.

Therefore, it is ideal to emphasise the concept of credibility.

Age 12 to 14 - This is the stage when sexual awareness and curiosity begin. Close parental help and involvement are vital as during this period, children get interested in online chat and if left unmonitored, could start socialising more in cyberspace. They should be told about the various privacy implications and never to reveal personal information, unless they are chatting with people they have met in real life. It is imperative to use blocking and filtering software at this stage.

Age 14 to 17 - Children are now almost young adults. They are mature physically, emotionally and intellectually. As they are anxious to enjoy greater independence, this is a challenging phase for parents. It is also a stage when youth like to take risks.

But, whatever the age group, it is essential for parents and other people involved with children to get computer savvy themselves . Parry Aftab's "The Parent's Guide to Protecting your Children in Cyberspace" is a useful book offering several tips on the subject.

There are quite a few organisations around the world that are working towards the goal of protecting children in cyberspace.

Some of their websites which provide information on supervising children on the Net are -http://www.cyberabgels.org

http://www.rsac.org

http://www.getnetwise.org

http://www.media-awareness.ca

http://www.americalinksup.org

http://www.safekids.com

http://www.childnet-int.org

http://disney.co.uk/safesurfing/

http://www.childrenspartnership.org

http://www.cme.org

http://internetwatch.org.uk

http://www.chatdanger.com

http://www.cybercitizenship.orgn

SUSAN SRIDHAR

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