The Pasco Sheriff’s Office recently posted some online safety tips that are aimed at parents and guardians to help keep their children safe online. The law enforcement agency also prepared some pointers to help adults stay safe when they’re meeting others online.
Here’s a recap of some pointers for parents and guardians who want to keep their children safe online:
- Monitor who your children are talking to online and be aware of what apps they’re using.
- Consider downloading some of the same apps, so you’ll understand the features and how the app works.
- Consider using parental controls, if they’re available.
- Advise your children not to communicate with people online that they haven’t met.
Also, talk to your children about being careful regarding who they trust, especially online because it’s easy for predators to lie online. Open communication with your children provides them with information that they can use to help keep themselves safe.
The PSO also has some advice for adults who may be hoping to connect with other adults online.
The law enforcement agency offers a friendly reminder that what may begin as a simple romance in a chat room, or through direct messages or email, quickly can evolve into a romance scam.
Online dating provides an ideal environment for criminals to remain anonymous while targeting vulnerable individuals looking for companionship.
There are some red flags. For instance, scammers will ask victims to help pay for something by sending money, gift cards, a money order or a wire.
Here are some precautions to help keep yourself safe:
- Be cautious when communicating online.
- Don’t send payments to anyone you don’t personally know.
- Never share personal or financial information.
- Protect your location; turn off geolocation settings.
- Never upload inappropriate content of yourself or someone else.
- Report inappropriate posts online activity directly to social platforms.
- If you’re a victim of a scam, report it to local law enforcement immediately.
Published February 21, 2024
