A harmless game of checkers online with friends. Seems harmless enough as the kids from school chat about their day, friends, after school events and the other typical topics of conversation of children and youth. well, what may not be realized is that they may not be alone in that games room. The internet is full af great information, entertainment and resources. Unfortunately, there is the darker side of the internet which is not fully understood by most parents and children. Predators search the online chats and game rooms to find potential victims. There is a vast array of child porn, online stalkers and even predators who will pose as other children to befriend other children. once that happens, they try to arrange meetings with the children and when the child realizes that the other person is not really a child or youth, it can be too late. More and more parents are learning about the online dangers when it comes to our children but it is a slow process. As people are reluctant to embrace technology, they do not fully understand and appreciate the benefits or the hazards. In downloading music from sites such as Kazaa or the like, your child can unknowingly be downloading viruses which will allow others to know every key typed on your computer, they can take personal information and know your names, address, phone number, bank accounts, passwords and so much more with out you being any the wiser. This may be scary to think that someone could get into your online banking and clear out your account but thta could be the least of your worries. they now know the names of your children from watching them type in the chat rooms etc. They now know where your child lives and the phone number. Chances are they will be able to find out the school your child goes to and more. Be aware of what you children are posting on FaceBook, Twitter and other such sites. Any pictures, once online will never go away. You may delete them from one site but by then they could be on 10 other sites without your even knowing. For more information or help email help@youthandviolence.com