How To Monitor Instant Messaging

55 percent of kids age 12 to 17 are using IM to communicate in real time. Even conscientious parents may have trouble monitoring this kind of usage. There are tools that help parents monitor their kids instant messaging and even restrict it. Instant Message, Instant DangerOnline Encounter Leads To Local Teen's Abduction

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The kind of protection you use may depend on the type of instant messaging system you use.

If you’re a subscriber to AOL or MSN you need to look into what kind of parental controls are offered.

Some cable and DSL providers also offer free parental controls, so you should also take a look at those.

Beside alls these options you may also want to look at parental software you can buy and install.

Even with all these protections remember, there are ways to get around secure systems. Some teens may even see this as a challenge to see if they can outsmart the sensors. Kids can also log on the internet from a friends house, or grandma’s house or even the public library.

That is why it is important to discuss online rules with your children. Constant reminders are needed. Do not give out personal information like name age and phone number and do not meet face to face with anyone they’ve met online.

Here is some of the more popular parental security software available. www.watchright.comwww.securitysoft.comwww.spectorsoft.comwww.cybersitter.comwww.cyberpatrol.com