Internet Safety for Kids

Mobile Device Safety

Today, many kids and teens have mobile devices such as phones, iPods, and tablet computers. Since they may keep these devices with them all the time, it's important to know how to use them safely. If your kids use any kind of mobile device, you should talk to them about the dangers.

Using Mobile Devices While Driving

Texting while driving

If a teen receives a text message while driving, it's very tempting for them to respond to it immediately. However, this is extremely dangerous and often illegal. Even if the teen just looks down for a second, they could easily get into a serious accident. The safest thing for them to do is to wait until they can stop the car before typing a text message.

Of course, smartphones can do a lot more than just texting. They also allow you to browse the internet, send emails, and use social networking apps. Doing any of these things while driving can cause a wreck, just as texting can.

To learn about the dangers of texting while driving, watch The Last Text, a 10-minute documentary created by AT&T.

It can also be dangerous to text while walking, as it makes it more difficult to notice approaching cars or obstacles. It's important for your kids to avoid using their mobile devices in any situation where they need to stay alert.

Sexting

With most mobile phones, it's easy to take photos and send them to your friends. Since teens and preteens are curious and want to experiment, many of them take nude or sexual photos and send them to their boyfriends or girlfriends. This is known as sexting. It's important for your kids to know that sexting can have very serious consequences.

In many states, teens who engage in sexting can be prosecuted for child pornography. If convicted, the teen may have to spend time in prison and register as a sex offender. This will also make it harder to find a job or get into college. As you can see, the consequences of sexting can affect your teen's life for many years.

Many teens think that sexting is innocent, or that they won't get caught. However, photos can easily be shared online or over mobile phones, so they could be seen by anyone. You should make sure your kids know how serious the consequences can be.

ThinkUKnow.co.uk is an educational website created by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre. To learn more about the dangers of sexting, watch the following video from ThinkUKnow.co.uk.