Familiarize yourself with the internet and all applications your child uses. Get to know the tools and capabilities of each site visited or applications used and learn how to use them. Also, be aware that many devices other than computers (e.g., gaming consoles, tablets, etc.) have wireless capabilities and integrated webcams.

Find out about your children’s online habits. Regularly check your children’s texts, emails and browser history.

Talk to your children about the possible dangers online.

Establish when and where your child can go online. Keep the home computer in a high-traffic area of the house. The same applies to your child’s use of mobile devices, such as tablets or cell phones.

Install filtering software, or use an internet provider that includes filters in its service.

Be aware there are applications that can turn any device into a cell phone.

Search for yourself and your children online to see what information is publicly available.

Know ALL of your child’s passwords

Establish when and where a child may go online.

Discuss what sites they are allowed to visit, what applications they are allowed to download and their expected activity.

Do not allow children to take laptops, cell phones or tablets to bed with them.

Monitor cell phone usage and applications installed. Check for unknown numbers, late night calls or concerning texts.

Remind children that anything they send from their computers, cell phones or tablets can easily be forwarded and shared. Discuss the possible social, academic and legal consequences.

Encourage your child to come to you immediately if anyone makes him or her feel uncomfortable online or makes overtures to meet in person.

Your child becomes withdrawn and isolated from family and friends.

You find inappropriate material on the computer, tablet or phone.

Your child receives mail, money or gifts from unknown people.

You see unknown phone numbers when reviewing the phone bill.

Make it clear that the victimization is not his or her fault.

Save all evidence of victimization, such as e-mails, conversations or photos.

Contact your local law-enforcement agency immediately

Make a report to the CyberTipline® or call 1-800-THE-LOST® and include all information available.

Never arrange a meeting with someone you have met online.

Never give out personal information on the internet or in a user profile.

Never download pictures sent from an unknown person or source.

Never upload pictures of yourself to an unknown person or site.

Don’t post where you are or where you are going.

Remember that people you meet online may not be who they claim to be.