The Internet is an invaluable resource for the whole family. However, there are certain risks you and your children may encounter while exploring the wonders of the Web. Did you know that, according to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, one in five kids ages 10-17 is sexually solicited online?

Qwest Communications offers a proactive resource that parents and guardians can use to help protect their children while they explore the wonders of the Web.

Located at www.incredibleinternet.com Web site, The Connected Family Online Classroom includes expert tips, articles, tests and the downloadable Connected Family Kit – available in English and Spanish – to help parents and guardians understand and safely navigate the wonders of the Web.  

Families can follow these 10 tips for safely exploring the Internet.

1. In your home, place the computer in a visible location to monitor your family’s Internet activity and appropriate uses.
2. Protect your online privacy: NEVER provide your personal information tostrangers. Do not send your photograph online or post a public profile with information such as age, gender, hobbies, and interests.
3. Communicate with your family. Let children show you what they can do online, and visit their favorite sites.
4. It is very risky to make arrangements to meet anyone you have met online. For example, in chat rooms, people often pretend to be someone they are not. Never allow your children to meet anyone they have met online.
5. Be sure you know who is receiving the Instant Messages you send. Even if you do know the recipients, anything you type can be forwarded to other people.
6. Never respond to E-mail, chat comments, instant messages, or newsgroup messages that are inappropriate or make you feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.
7. If something inappropriate happens online, report the interaction immediately to www.cybertipline.com. Children should always report anything inappropriate online to an adult immediately.
8. Always be alert and aware for Internet scams. For more information on how to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft visit www.incredibleinternet.com/identitytheft.
9. To protect you and your computer, use software for spyware, spam, and viruses. Also, check with your Internet Service Provider on safeguarding options they might offer.
10. Visit www.incredibleinternet.com for more information. 

NOTE: Qwest is providing this resource developed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children as a public service. Qwest assumes no liability for the accuracy or use of this information.