As you know, Internet Predators are not the only danger online. Cyberbullying is becoming more and more prevalent. As in real life bullying, cyber bullying leaves emotional scars on a child. This is a problem that goes hand in hand with Cyber Stalking.

While its is primarily nonphysical it can be just as terrifying. It is in fact an extension of stalking and what may begin as online harassment may manifest into a far more dangerous pursuit. Stalking and bullying, both online and off, are characterized by a relentless harassment and perusal of the victim.

The bully or stalker have often had some kind of relationship with the victim and sometimes may be the result of the victim breaking off the relationship. Other cases it has developed through relationships solely online.

Cyber bullying largely consists of harassing behavior in the form of:

electronic messaging
unsolicited threatening e-mails
virus emails, chat room harassment
abusive forum posts and sexual harassment
posting personal information such as phone numbers email, address
posting and or creating sexuality explicit images
hacking into accounts
subscribing them to porn and unwanted advertising
spamming and at the extreme end, death threats.

When it comes to cyber bullying, children are particularly vulnerable. They do not have the social maturity to judge situations therefore; they become the targets of stalkers and predators.
Children generally feel safe and at ease in their homes and they often develop a false sense of security when meeting people online. This is what cyber bullies, stalkers, and predators rely on when luring a child.
Harassment of this kind can be extremely damaging and disturbing for a child. So as parents, we all need to take all the necessary steps to ensure your child is safe when using the Internet.

First you need to recognize that you can't watch them 24 hours a day therefore much of their Internet time will go unsupervised.

That being said you next best option if you can't be there is Parent Control Software.

Your computer should be set up in a family area where there will be a steady stream of traffic.

Avoid putting a computer in your child's room.

Monitor their activities online; this is imperative for children of all ages. Do this in person by getting involved in your child's virtual world.

You have the right to question anything your child does online.

Watch for behavioral changes in your child. This is an indication that something is wrong, and in todays society there is a good chance that the problem lies in their virtual world.

You should also monitor them when your not there with parent control monitoring software. For more information visit - www.pctattletale.com

Educate your children in Internet safety and notify authorities immediately if you or your child is receiving unsolicited, threatening emails.

Know your state laws concerning cyber bullying and know what your rights are.

Through a combination of education and monitoring, you effectively make your children less accessible to dangerous cyber stalkers.

Your children will be able to embrace the opportunities of the Internet in a safe and productive manner.

Thank you to our Director Of Operations, Major Ken Bundrick for this information regarding Cyberbullying and Cyber stalking.