Cyber safety is the safe and responsible use of information and communication technology. It is about keeping information safe and secure, but also about being responsible with that information, being respectful of other people online, and using good ‘netiquette.

The average age of a tech-savvy kid is getting younger and younger and our children are spending more and more time online to stay connected with friends, explore new apps and games, and download music and videos. While we know that blocking access to the cyber world is not an option, we need to make sure we educate ourselves and our youth on how to stay safe online.

• 1 in 3 adolescents in the U.S. is a victim of physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner.
• 50% of young people who experience rape or physical or sexual abuse will attempt to commit suicide.
• Nearly half (43%) of dating college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors.
• LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered) teen couples are just as likely as heterosexual couples to be involved in dating violence.
• Only 33% of teens in an abusive relationship ever told anyone about the abuse – 75% tell a friend, 6% tell a family member and 3% tell an authority figure.
• The effects of an abusive relationship increase the risk of becoming trapped in another unhealthy relationship during college and adult years.

Crime Stoppers shares important Cyber Safety Tips for Parents to make sure our kids are safe as they connect, learn and play online.