 The threat of Internet crime
is a serious concern. Unfortunately, criminals have caught up with technology
and a variety of Internet crimes are occurring regularly against adults and
children. First Alert Professional is committed to public safety. Your First Alert Professional Authorized Dealer
can provide you with Internet Safety materials for you to
share with your family.
ONLINE SHOPPING (E-commerce)
When shopping
online, here are some tips to remember:
Make sure the browser you currently use is a secure browser. On most
browser toolbars, you will find a “Tools” section. Click on this section and
find the “Security” Tab. Enter in the level of security you want the browser
to contain. Install security updates as they are made available.
Check the site you plan to shop at to ensure it is a secure site; a "lock"
icon on the screen will inform you that you are at a secure site.
Do not give out passwords, social security numbers or personal bank
account information.
Pay by credit card.
Keep a record of all transactions.
KIDS AND THE INTERNET
The Internet can be a fun and
educational resource for children. As a parent, you should communicate with your
children on what is acceptable and what is not when your child is online. By
speaking with your children about the Internet, you are helping to empower them
against the potential dangers lurking on the Internet.
To help protect your child:
Monitor your child's use on the Internet.
Teach your child not to give out personal information.
Use filtering software.
Check the lists of sites that may advocate child abuse or pedophilia by
searching on the CyberAngels web site (cyberangels.com).
E-MAIL SAFETY
E-mail is an easy and affordable way to
stay in touch with relatives, keep up to date with friends and communicate with
business associates. Unfortunately, the increased incidents of crime involving
e-mail are on the rise. In addition to scams, computer viruses are another
rising threat involving e-mail.
Here are some simple rules to follow in protecting yourself when using
e-mail:
If you do not recognize the sender of the email, do not open it. Simply
delete the message.
Check with your Online Service Provider about their rules and regulations
regarding unwanted e-mails, or if they offer a way to "block" unwanted email.
If you receive an e-mail of a violent or offensive nature, report it to
your Internet Service Provider. If the problem persists, contact your local
law enforcement agency.
CHAT ROOM
Chat rooms can be a fun experience. You can
share views on politics, TV shows, music, etc. However, you should exercise
caution when participating in chats.
Be sure to log into a chat room using an alias as opposed to your user name.
Also, do not give out personal information, such as your address, place of
employment, etc. Keep in mind that the person you are speaking to is a stranger
and may not be who he or she claims they are. Do not answer Instant Messages
unless they are from someone you know.
The Internet has opened up many possibilities. Along with this progress come
safety concerns. We hope you find these tips useful in helping to protect you
and your family. By practicing some of the safety tips mentioned, you may reduce
the risk of becoming victimized by the dangers that lurk in cyberspace. | 
