Back-to-school tips to keep your family safe online

(ARA) - The end of summer means it's time to head back to school. It also means kids are spending more time online prepping for the upcoming school year, finishing summer homework lists and reconnecting with summer friends. Likewise, cybercriminals are online targeting them through e-mail, IM and phishing scams, and even trying to make contact on social networking sites, blogs and chat rooms. What's a parent to do?

With cybercrime on the rise, recent research shows that 62 percent of moms are just as worried about their teenagers' online safety as they are about drunk driving. But parents don't need to worry. Experts at computer security company McAfee have some simple ways to keep kids safe online so parents can have peace of mind.

There's no free lunch: avoid online "freebies"
Teach your kids to stay away from free downloads like screensavers, surveys and online club registrations. Many of these "freebies," like games and wallpaper, include hidden spyware and adware programs. These can monitor keystrokes, track Internet logins and transmit confidential information. Educate your kids on safe searching habits and avoiding "free" screensavers, games and wallpaper. Let them know if it's free, chances are it will cost you.

Lock your valuables: protect against viruses and malware
Some e-mails contain harmful software that can damage your computer or track your Internet activities - all without you knowing. Anti-virus and anti-spyware software as well as a two-way firewall will protect you from inadvertently accepting unwanted files attached to e-mails. The security software scans all communications into your computer, while a firewall protects both the inbound and outbound connection to your computer. A firewall is crucial if you have a broadband or DSL connection that leaves your computer connected to the Internet 24 hours a day.

Hall monitors needed: be aware of all online activities
Help your kids be responsible online by blocking inappropriate sites and preventing risky online activity. The recently released McAfee Family Protection software can act as a "cheat sheet" for parents to monitor their kids' online and can block inappropriate content, prevent cyber bullying and stop risky interactions on social networking sites. The software also gives you the ability to track online activities, and then use the data to teach your kids safe Internet habits.

Show and tell: educate kids on proper online behavior
As with any academic subject, it's important to educate your children on potential Internet dangers. From keeping personal information private to downloading safely, keeping up a continuous dialogue with you children about their activities online can help prevent a risky situation. For tips on keeping your computer and kids safe, please visit www.mcafee.com/advice.

Courtesy of ARAcontent