Internet Security - Part I

As we all surf the web, we have all learned what an invaluable resource it has become. There are certainly many ways we can all use the internet to help us in our daily lives as well as bringing honor and glory to God. However, along with the power of the internet, there is a great responsibility. Over the next few issues, we will introduce some of the dangers of the internet we all face as well as some basic concepts of keeping our families safe.

The first thing that I have become painfully aware of is the reach of the dangers of the internet. In the last year, I have lost count of the number of ministries and families which have been destroyed in one way or another because of some influence of the internet. Many people immediately think of pornography being brought into the home, office or church. Sadly, this is not the only concern. The people who are abusing the internet are using the craftiness of the devil himself to destroy websites, ministries, adults and children. I have been absolutely shocked at the complete lack of respect some people have for anything or anyone.

What I have also realized is that no one is safe—whether connected to the internet or not. My children have absolutely no idea what the internet is, but I have become all too aware that they are the targets of predators around the world.

Over the next several issues of the Teens-4-Christ Times, we will examine several aspects of internet security:

• The dangers at home, work and school: Basically, we will explain the dangers of the internet in places where you can control as well as how to control these dangers.
• The dangers around the corner: Though many of these dangers are the same, some are not. In all of these dangers, the striking difference is the your lack of ability to control the dangers. We will look at what these dangers are and what practical steps you need to take to protect your family.
• The hidden dangers: The average internet user has no idea of the hidden dangers of the internet. In a recent press release, the FBI revealed that they had documented millions of computers within the boundaries of the United States which have been compromised and are presently being used as a part of one or more ‘Bot-Networks’ (we’ll explain what a ‘bot’ and what a ‘bot-network’ is too!)
• Prevention and protection: Connecting a PC to the internet gives you access to a great wealth of resources, but it also gives you a great responsibility. We will discuss some general steps as well as some critical specific steps you need to take to protect yourself.

Be sure to keep up! We will move quickly. However, if you have any questions about internet security, please contact us!