The Internet, for cyberspace, has changed our lives - offering real time access to information, education and entertainment. There are also potential dangers in cyberspace, especially for children, including cyber bullying and cyber predators. Helping clients assess the risks of cyberspace, as well as how to protect their children, is another value-added service of the professional insurance agent.

Anything to do with the internet is considered cyberspace. Use of the internet by children can be beneficial, enabling them to connect with others in similar situations or with similar interests, and thereby avoid loneliness and isolation. Access to information can help with homework, as well as offer the opportunity to learn a new skill or language and find out about different cultures.

Cyber bullying, as well as the awareness of cyber bullying, is on the rise. Cyber bullying includes posting, sending or sharing false, harmful, mean or negative photos or comments about another person over any of a variety of devices or methods including social media (Facebook, Twitter), texting or instant messaging. The information shared can be private, or embarrassing.

34% of people surveyed say they have experienced cyber bullying in their lifetime, with 17% saying it has happened in the past 30 days. 87% of children and teens say they've seen cyber bullying online (www.broadbandsearch.net). Cyber bullying can lead to mental and physical problems. In extreme cases, victims of cyber bullying have committed suicide.

Cyber bullying can be criminal or unlawful, and is addressed differently in every state, the District of Columbia and US territories (www.stopbullying.gov). Insurance for cyber bullying is now available. It provides coverage for expenses incurred by victims of a cyber bullying attack, including private tutoring, relocation expenses and legal fees.

Cyber predators are another risk of cyberspace. At any time, there are 500,000 predators online. There are nearly 800,000 registered sex offenders in the United States. Predators use the internet to attempt to exploit children and teens for abusive and sexual purposes. They tend to target adolescents in the vulnerable 12 - 15 year age range, especially those who post suggestive photos or engage in discussions about sexual activity. Girls are more commonly targets than boys. It is interesting to note that while stories of adults contacting children make headlines, research shows that children are more likely to pressure other children to post inappropriate content or photos.

Children should be aware of anyone who attempts to get too personal or suggests an in person meeting. Predators are good at hiding their true identity. Teens who are victims of online sexual predators always met with the predator willingly (wwwpuresight.com).

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force is a national network of 61 task forces, representing 4,500 local, state and federal agencies working together to encourage cooperation and education between law enforcement, parents and educators to prevent internet crimes against children - specifically solicitation and dissemination of child pornography (www.icactaskforce.org).

There are a number of ways that parents can monitor their child's online activity, including parental controls, restricted privacy settings and mature content filtering software. Maintain open communications. Let children know it's ok to tell someone if they are contacted inappropriately or experiencing bullying. Stay involved. Young children should never be allowed to surf the internet without adult supervision. Train children to never give out personal information. Check the ratings for their online games and only allow them to play age-appropriate ones.

Cyberspace can be a wonderful tool, but it can also be scary. The impact of cyber bullying or cyber predators can be devastating to children. Helping clients understand the risk of cyberspace to their children, and how to address these risks, is another sign of the true insurance professional.

This article was previously published in the Insurance Advocate® and is provided courtesy of MSO®, Inc. (The Mutual Service Office, Inc.). MSO provides custom rate, form and statistical services for all property and casualty insurance lines except workers compensation. This includes customized forms and manuals for insurers, MGA's and agents/brokers. MSO's goal is to provide a simpler, more profitable way to underwrite risks. Additional information is available at  www.msonet.com. E-mail to squimby@msonet.com.