According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, it is as simple as paying attention to what your kids are doing.

Special Agent Mike Miller, of the cyber crimes division, said allowing teenagers unrestricted online access or access in private locations, such as a bedroom, are big danger signs. He said a lack of supervision in the child’s involvement online is the first step toward putting him or her at risk.

Too many parents believe they can download or install a program to protect their child from predators. These programs try to filter or block out dangerous or inappropriate Web sites.

“(Protection programs) are not foolproof, nor are they the answer,” Miller said. “But they are probably better than nothing.” …

“Part of it is apathy, but a lot of it is lack of time to find out the right information,” Miller said. “We are finding a lot of cases where children in single-parent homes are vulnerable because the single parent is working, and the computer becomes the baby sitter.”
He said some parents refuse to believe their child may be in danger until it is too late…

“Parents should check out their child’s online profile,” he said. “Often, the child will put up too much personalized information in their profile. It is an easy way for someone to get their hands on that info.” …

Striking a balance between supervising your child’s activities online and allowing them to develop their own sense of privacy is difficult. Miller admitted it is a tough place for parents to be these days.

Source: WBALCHANNEL.com
http://www.thewbalchannel.com/family/10347056/detail.html