Report on internet use by kids
Education, education, education is the best way of keeping kids safe online, according to the latest report released by the Australian Brodcasting Authority and NetAlert – the government’s internet advisory body. The report details internet usage and attitudes of more than 500 eight to thirteen year olds and their parents. And not surprisingly, the main concerns for parents remain pornogaphy and communicating with strangers. The issues for kids, however, are very different. Hackers and electronic viruses are at the top of their agenda. Jane Maquard, board member at the ABA, says that protection of children is going to become an increasing priority, as new technologies such as instant messages emerge, and as broadband increases internet coverage. She spoke to Paulina Vidal about whether the current regulatory system really can protect kids from pornography.