With as much time as we all spend online, the frustration of a computer slowed down by spyware or a virus is probably very familiar. These sinister and invasive applications can range from simply annoying you with advertising, to being completely malicious–they could invade your system, destroy your files, or transmit your personal information to identity thieves.

But some of the latest viruses finding victims today are placing horrendous photos and videos onto your computer. These viruses are able to turn you into an unwitting child pornographer. So instead of malicious software used to target your identity, it’s being used to destroy your reputation. Pedophiles are able to utilize your virus infected computer to store their files without getting caught themselves. The viruses are designed to make it look like the traffic is coming from your computer, potentially landing you in serious trouble.

These creeps are sinking to new lows, and now involving even more innocent victims. More than ever, it’s important to keep your anti-virus software up to date. But you should also be sure to practice safe websurfing as well. As always, it’s important to only visit and download from trusted websites, avoid unfamiliar attachments, and be careful what personal information you are entering in online.

The AMW Safety Center has plenty of information about what dangers exist while surfing online, and what active steps to take that can help keep you and your family safe.

For many of us, gang violence seems like something that happens in other neighborhoods, in movies or on TV. But it’s important to recognize how pervasive it really is, and how susceptible our kids and teens could be to the dangers. Gang violence is not just limited to urban centers, to poverty or any particular ethnic group or race.  The National Center for Victims of Crime reminds us that gangs can reach out to rural and suburban communities, no matter the socio-economic or cultural make up.

Such violence brought tragedy to three California families in May of 2009. Police say that a group of thugs walked up behind unsuspecting 25 year-old C.J. Davis as he was on his way to the market, and opened fire on him with an assault rifle. While speeding away from the scene and with police in hot pursuit, the Cadillac carrying the gang members slammed into another car at an intersection, killing the other driver instantly. The impact sent the vehicles spinning out of control, striking and killing a pedestrian as well. While three of the gang members have since been apprehended, a fourth, Rafael Campbell is still at large.

This senseless tragedy set in motion by a violent act is an example of how far reaching the consequences can be to a community, in this case leaving three families devastated. For parents, it’s important that you are aware not only of what is going on in your neighborhood, but also how it could be affecting your kids.

The AMW Safety Center has a lot of information for parents and teens to help recognize some of these dangers as they exist in our schools and community, and how to take an active role to try fighting back.

Getting Involved Against Gangs In Your Community

 How Can I Help My Friends Stay Away From Gangs?

Start Celebrating Safe Communities Today

Create An Effective And Successful Neighborhood Watch

No matter your age, Halloween can be a fun time for the whole family. But as you prepare your costumes and final decorations for the big celebration, make sure you keep safety on your mind.

The AMW Safety Center has plenty of tips for you and your family to keep in mind as you hit the streets this weekend. Parents and guardians should be sure to closely supervise young children, and make sure your older kids are prepared with the street smarts they need to be out in the neighborhood at night.

Halloween is also a time for a significant rise in injuries, so be sure to remind your kids that it’s not all fun and games. Check out some of the information and resources below that we’ve prepared to help make your Halloween safe and fun for the whole family. Continue reading Making Sure You Have A Safe Halloween »

For 25 years, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has worked tirelessly to protect our kids. Whether reuniting families and recovering missing children, or tracking down those who would threaten their safety, NCMEC has been a champion of families all over the country. The AMW Safety Center gives you an inside look at how NCMEC works; showing you some of the high tech tools and the strategic partnerships they have forged with top government agencies to help keep our children safe.