Important Note: With any discussion of risks, it’s important to realize that the most horrendous (i.e. the child turning up missing or molested) is also the least likely. As with all aspects of life, the risk should be put into context. Statistically, probably the greatest risk is that a child will be encounter people in chat areas and newsgroups who are mean or obnoxious. Another “risk” is that a child will spend a lot of wasted time in areas that aren’t all that productive.
Passwords: Children should also be cautioned to never give out their Internet or AOL password to anyone even if the person claims to work for AOL or an Internet service provider. When in doubt, children should ask their parents and parents should know their provider’s policy regarding passwords (AOL staff, for example, will never ask a member for their password).
Privacy
Children have a right to privacy. Everything about them: their name, age, what school they go, is their business and the business of their families. No one, including reputable companies, have a right to extract this information from children without first checking with the child’s parents.
Gambling and Other Inappropriate Behaviors
There are sites that allow people to gamble with real money or just “for fun.” In some cases these sites may be operating legally in the jurisdiction where they are physically located but it is generally illegal (and inappropriate) for minors to gamble regardless of where they are. Most online gambling sites require a person to use a credit card or write a check to transfer funds. Speaking of gambling, it’s also possible to buy and sell stocks and securities over the Internet If your child has access to your web browser or AOL account and your brokerage password, it is possible that he or she might be able to conduct such a transaction. Keep on eye on this. Either prevent your kid from doing it or watch closely so you can learn something.
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