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Common problems
Schools will usually block access to IM services, and not allow
IM software to be installed on their computers, so it is something
associated with home usage.
You have no way of knowing what is happening when the youngster
uses the service, who they are talking to, what subjects they discuss,
whether they are being exposed to any language or ideas that you
would prefer they didn't experience, etc. Parents often worry that
children may allow in "buddies" who they don't really
know, or get contacted by strangers who pretend to share a common
interest. Talk to your child about their use of Instant Messaging,
such as who their IM "buddies" are, and how they met.
Parents often won't know if IM software is running on the home
PC. Look for the names or icons of IM software on the computer's
screen or in its menu of software programmes, or watch out for sudden
pop-up messages from an online friend. Talk to your children about
whether they know or use IM software, and encourage them to tell
you if they have any problems with it.
If a child is approached online by an unknown person, they should
be cautious about the way in which they respond and not give away
personal information. If anyone you know is troubled or harassed
by a problem-user, notify the service's system administrators, (details
will be on their website). Give them the nickname/ID of the person
and the dates, time and nature of the problem, and they can warn
off or disconnect that individual.
Viruses or offensive material in shared transferred files is a
potential risk, as you don't know what is in each file until you
open it. Refuse to accept any file transfers from people you don't
know well, and make use of anti-virus software to check for problems
in files that you do receive.
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