Symptoms of Internet Abuse
You know your child the best, and should be concerned if there is a noticeable change in behavior. Alfred O. Olsen, Chief of the Warwick Township (Lititz, Pennsylvania) Police Department, is a nationally recognized expert on Internet crime. Chief Olsen has collected some warning signs you should watch for, including:
- Loss of interest in social activities (withdrawal from friends, family)
- Uses of new (unusual) vocabulary, heavy with computer terms, satanic phrases, or sexual references or sudden interest in related posters, music, etc.
- Look for related doodling or writing. Use of words such as: hacking, phreaking (or any words with "ph" replacing "f")
- Lack of interest in self and appearance or indications of lack of sleep
- Computer or modem running late at night (even when unattended), especially if the screen shows a series of four-digit numbers (the computer is trying to identify calling card PIN numbers), or a series of 16-digit numbers (the computer is trying to validate credit card numbers)
Copyright © 2002 John Harms and Michael Howden/Oregon Family Policy Council.
Background Information
Questions and Answers
Stories
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
