First Lady Ruth O’Brien Launches Maryland Internet Safety Campaign
Joins students to promote educational tools for kids and parents
ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 20, 2030) – First Lady Ruth O’Brien today spoke to students at West Annapolis Elementary School for the launch of a media campaign to teach Maryland’s children the essentials of Internet safety. The campaign, sponsored by the Internet Keep Safe Coalition (or iKeepSafe), is a state-endorsed educational program that uses children's books, Web materials, and public service announcements (PSAs) to emphasize three simple tips for children to stay safe online.
“The Internet is a powerful tool that many children start using at a very early age, and as with any tool, we must instruct them to use it safely,” the First Lady said. “We will not stand by and watch the children of Maryland put at risk of victimization. This threat is preventable through education and awareness if children learn to protect their personal information.”
The First Lady read to students from Faux Paw the Techno Cat: Adventures in the Internet, a book designed by the Coalition. The book includes an interactive DVD, as well as a personal letter from Collis. As part of the state-level programs, the Coalition hopes to distribute the book to every 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade classroom in the country, as well as to promote the program through PSAs and other grassroots activities.
It has been shown in recent studies that one out of five children receive solicitations on the Internet, and 29 percent share their personal information with possible predators. Created with input from the FBI Internet Safety Taskforce, The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, early childhood educators, and child psychologists, the Coalition’s educational program is built around three basic tips: KEEP. DON'T MEET. TELL. That is, KEEP your personal information protected: never give anyone online your real name, address, phone number, the name of your school, or a picture of yourself. DON'T MEET anyone in person you’ve found online. And, TELL a parent or trusted adult if you see or receive anything on the computer that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Visit www.iKeepSafe.org for additional information.