It has been brought to the attention of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Services that some students are creating websites and using them as a means to abuse and harass other teenagers.
This practice appears to be a technological progression of bullying; where in the past students might have written derogatory or threatening comments in notes or on walls.
The Family Support Unit is looking into the matter but head of the unit
Inspector Angelique Howell says parents and guardians can also help.
‘Parents and guardians need to be more alert as to what their children are doing when they are using computers,’ she commented. ‘Parents often feel extremely proud that their child can operate a computer with such confidence and even teach them a thing or two about technology. But what we as parents have to realise is that knowledge can sometimes be used in a harmful way. You should keep an eye on what your child is using the computer for and take as much interest in their online activities as you do in other areas of their lives.’
Parents and young people should be aware that under the Misuse of Information & Communication Technology Authority Law it is a crime to use a computer, including the use of email, to threaten harass or annoy somebody.
The RCIPS is giving the following safety tips for parents and guardians as to online monitoring.
• Get to know the websites and services your child uses and if you don’t know how to use them ask your child to show you.
• Set reasonable rules and guidelines for the amount of time your child spends using a computer and make sure they are adhered to.
• Do not use the computer or the internet as an electronic babysitter, try and make the internet a family activity and get involved.
• Know who your child’s online friends are just as you would know who there other friends are.
• Ensure your child does not give out personal information to strangers.
There are many issues relating to the supervision of children using the internet and parents who have access to the web can get more information by visiting www.safekids.com Anyone wanting to speak with somebody about these issues should contact the Family Support Unit on 946-9185.
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