Two-Thirds of American Parents Worried About Their Children’s Safety Online

Two-thirds of American parents are worried about their children’s safety when using the Internet. So, despite the widespread acceptance of the Internet as source of information, e-commerce, social networking and more, it remains a source of worry for parents as well.

In a nationwide survey conducted by legal information website FindLaw.com, it was revealed that 67 percent of 627 parents are extremely worried (10%), very worried (18%) or somewhat worried (39%) about their children’s safety online. About 20% said that they are not very worried while 14% are not worried at all. The study was done with a small sampling but FindLaw.com said that it was demographically representative.

Most parents are taking steps to restrict their children’s use of the Internet. Steps taken vary, including: monitoring which sites they visit (35%); using site-blocking software (21%); restricting their access to computers (19%); restricting the use of social networks (18%); reading their emails or social posts (17%); and not allowing any Internet use (8%).

Stephanie Rahlfs, an attorney and editor with FindLaw.com, said:

“Our survey shows [that] the vast majority of parents (74 percent) are taking at least some steps to try and protect their children from what they feel are potentially dangerous or unwanted aspects of the Internet. While the Internet can be a very useful tool for adults and children alike, there are many areas that can concern parents, from age-inappropriate content to cyberbullying to Internet predators and more. However, there are many options available for parents to monitor activities and limit access to certain parts of the Internet.”

We do not disagree with the findings but we may frown on some of the restrictions employed. In this day and age though, kids should be worried as well with how their parents are using the Internet.