Qwest Online Safety Program

Qwest’s online safety program, Incredible Internet (www.incredibleinternet.com), was designed to help parents and children sift through the Web’s clutter. In partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), Qwest developed Incredible Internet to educate parents in child safety. With the goal of keeping families safe while browsing the Internet, this program offers tips on how to prevent various dangers, such as identity theft, from causing harm.

Among the most dangerous venues for children online are social networking websites, such as Facebook and Myspace. These sites are potentially harmful, as children and teenagers often reveal large quantities of personal information, including phone numbers and home addresses, to hundreds – even thousands – of other people. Due to the unsecure nature of the Internet, it is impossible to know the true identify of those engaging in social networking. Teens who utilize these websites are vulnerable to predators, who may try to lure them to meet in person. Consequences can be very serious!

Not only do social networking websites expose children to potentially dangerous predators, kids can easily access inappropriate sexual and/or violent content. Cyberbullying and identity theft are also threats that parents should learn to prevent.

In order reduce your family’s risk of becoming a victim of Internet violence and victimization, observe the following tips:
1. Know the screen name and password to each of your child’s accounts.
2. Create a safe-computing agreement with your child, ensuring that he or she understands how to behave online.
3. Inform your child that you will be monitoring what he or she posts online.
4. Monitor the profiles of your child’s friends, as personal information in regards to your child may be revealed there, as well.

Education is a critical component in preventing victimization, and Qwest’s online safety program is a great tool for families. Learn about the potential threats that lurk on the Web, with Incredible Internet.