What are social networking Web sites?

Social networking Web sites, such as My Space and Friendster, offer an interactive network of blogs, user profiles, groups, photos, and an internal email system where kids can meet with friends, post their interests, and read about the interests of others.

What are Internet forums and blogs?

An Internet forum is a facility on the World Wide Web for holding discussions. A Web log, or blog, is a Web-based publication consisting primarily of periodic articles.

What's the harm in allowing our kids to visit these sites?

Unlike most off-line situations, the Web is invasive, immediate, and anonymous - three factors that can be especially dangerous to children. The very nature of the sites makes your children vulnerable to divulging personal invitation to people they don't know.

What is the most dangerous aspect of these sites?

The biggest danger to your child's safety is if they get together with someone they meet online. Encourage them to come to you if they are approached.

Where can I learn more about protecting my kids from the risks of online communities?

Right here at Club Symantec. Visit our article "Online Communities-Protecting your Kids." It explains in more detail how arming your kids with the proper knowledge, inviting discussion, and installing the right security tools, your kids can safely explore the information and communication the Internet offers.

Does Symantec have a product that can protect my personal information and my computer?

Yes we do. Norton Internet Security 2007 is Symantec's most robust product with child protection capabilities that can help you protect your children as they explore the Internet. It protects you against hackers and destructive viruses, gives you control over all incoming and outgoing Internet traffic, prevents confidential information from being sent without your permission, and blocks Web sites you don't want your children to visit.