"Learning and staying informed about current Internet issues will help parents improve and then maintain their children's safety. While there is no foolproof way to protect your kids online, there are precautions that families can take in the world of technology to reduce the chances of children encountering dangerous or unsuitable material," says Colin Erasmus, technology security manager at Microsoft SA. "We aim to equip as many parents and kids as possible with this information to actively protect themselves."
The initiative, which is part of Microsoft's commitment to help make the Internet safer for children, will focus on providing education and information for parents, educators and children on how to stay safe online by knowing their rights and what activities may put them at risk while using the Internet and other technologies.
Microsoft has been hosting an online educational quiz on the cliksafe educational website (www.clicksafe.co.za) from 19 June 2006. All national schools have the opportunity to win a PC for their school and one of their pupils.
Younger kids not yet involved in the world of technology are also encouraged to learn the three golden rules of technology safety via a national colouring-in competition. This will feature in The Star on Wednesday 21 June. A home PC is also up for grabs as the prize.
During National Security Week, Microsoft will be hosting technology security chat sessions. The chat panel will include representatives from Childline, SAPS, Film and Publications Board and Microsoft South Africa.
In addition, Microsoft will host the "clicksafe" family day at Johannesburg Zoo on Saturday 1 July 2006, which will be open to the public. The day will offer young visitors a day of fun while learning via an obstacle and mental challenge course, where kids stand a chance to win a PC and a Bill Gates-autographed keyboard.
Educational sessions for parents will be held during the day to provide information on what risks children can be exposed to and how these can be prevented using technology and good Internet usage practices.
Microsoft also provides educational tools on the subject at www.microsoft.com/security/athome.
