ICAC Frequently Asked Questions

​​

​​Any computer or device with Internet access can be used to permit someone to use an app or website. Some apps require only that the registrant provide an email address and ​often there is no verification process to check the truthfulness of any of the information that a registrant provides. Most apps require that users abide by conditions and terms of use meant to thwart improper conduct, but​ enforcement is often lax. Once a registrant becomes a member, he or she can communicate with others, post personal information, or share images or other information depending upon the features available on the app. Unless a user chooses privacy options, all posted information may be visible to any other user of an app. Some apps are created to be used anonymously, which can add to the risk of using the app or site. It is important to research the apps and social networking sites you, your children, and your teenagers are using, and talk to them about safety measures and potential risks. ​

Those who misuse the sites may do so in many ways, including:

  • Luring/enticement: Internet sexual predators and known sex offenders have used social networking sites to locate and lure victims.
  • Identity theft: Criminals steal the identities of those who post personal information.
  • Cyberbullying/harassment: Agitators post derogatory, hurtful or threatening information about others.
  • Stalking: Stalkers can use personal information posted to sites to locate and pursue victims.
  • Fraud schemes: Criminals who wish to defraud others of money or property can locate victims, gain their trust and then take advantage of that trust for criminal purposes.
  • Inappropriate sexual content: Some users post sexually explicit information that is inappropriate for young computer users.
  • Sextortion: Predators use non-physical forms of coercion, such as blackmail, to acquire sexual content, engage in sex, or obtain money.

The answer can vary based on several factors, including level of maturity, understanding and adherence to rules, and ability to take care of possessions. Having a connected tech device can be an expensive addition, and can open your child up to potential worldwide communication, so make sure you are having the discussions to ensure they’re ready to use it appropriately.

Devices - Consider questions such as:

  • Does your child frequently lose or break things (such as homework folders or toys)?
  • Does your child listen to and follow rules (limits on use)?
  • Is there a reason for them having the device?

Apps – Consider questions such as:

  • What are the age restrictions on the app?
    • COPPA sets rules for use of data from or about children under the age of 13 using online services
    • "Lying” about age can result in safety concerns, such as the app showing they are an adult when they aren’t
  • What safety settings will I require for them to use the app?
  • How often will I check in on their use, the privacy settings, and have general discussion?
  • Agreed-upon contracts for household tech use can help set some of the rules and boundaries. There is no right answer to these questions; you must decide what is appropriate for your household. Consider letting your child help set the rules and consequences if rules aren’t followed.

Parents commonly have questions about which apps are “bad” or “risky” for children. While this is a completely understandable question, apps change and trend so frequently that focusing on specific apps could cause us to miss risky behavior taking place on other platforms or devices. Instead, we recommend focusing on safe and “risky” behaviors instead, a message that can carry to any app or device.

You can’t start soon enough! If your child has access to a device, even if usage is very controlled, including online safety messages in your communication with them is a good idea. 

  • Start small! With younger children, quick and easy messages are the way to start. For instance, “Let me know if there are any pop-ups asking for information so I can help you get rid of them.” You can advance the conversation as their online usage advances. 
  • Have conversations early and often. These conversations with parents/guardians are the biggest influencer of change in our children’s online behaviors. ​This also helps parents and guardians to know what’s going on in our children’s online lives. 
  • Consider basic safety plans, such as: 
    • parental approvals and privacy settings on devices 
    • screen time limits and no-screen zones, and 
    • agreed upon contracts for tech use in the house.
​