Archive for February, 2009

Knowing What Threats Your Teens Face Online

 

While there are hundreds of millions of people who use social networks, some of these are sex offenders who have used the web sites to target children.  How can you as a parent help protect your kids from these threats? For a start, it’s helpful for parents to be aware of the potential profile of who really might be talking to your kids. A study from the Crimes Against Children Research Center at the University of New Hampshire found that, in most cases:

  • Online sex offenders are looking for teens and do not lie about their age.
  • They aren’t generally posing as a teen, but take their time in establishing a teens trust through repeated and intimate communication, in hopes of leading to sex.
  • Many have previously been charged with nonviolent statutory rape.

The targets of these sex predators tend to know they are communicating with an adult. In many cases, their vulnerability increases when there is a history of abuse at home, depression, and general risky behavior. Continue reading Knowing What Threats Your Teens Face Online »

Outsmart Scammers: Stay On Guard Against Tax-Time Fraud

As tax time approaches, people all over the country are concerned with keeping their finances on track, especially as the economy continues to veer towards the unknown. With new tax cuts and stimulus payments becoming available, it’s possible to become confused. The IRS has already reported numerous errors in early tax filings. Additionally, you should be on guard against any number of scams that pop up around this time of year, particularly those that claim to offer you excessive stimulus payments. Continue reading Outsmart Scammers: Stay On Guard Against Tax-Time Fraud »

What You Can Do To Take Action Against Bullying

With nearly 30 percent of American youths affected by bullying, it’s clear this is a major problem for our kids. Bullying can take many forms, and can even happen on the Internet or in a text message. Regardless of the form it takes, the result can have long-lasting repercussions and needs to be stopped.

Some bullies are looking for attention, or try to make themselves feel more important. Bullying can lead to a child feeling scared, embarrassed, hurt, and can even cause a child to not want to go to school or play outside. Continue reading What You Can Do To Take Action Against Bullying »




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