Summary

The Internet has radically altered modern life over the past 20 years. People can learn about or buy almost anything online, and they can do so from the comfort of their homes. However, with the good comes the bad. The Internet is also used to commit identity theft, find potential victims for rip-off scams, search for child pornography, to meet children and teenagers for sex, and many more unsavory illegal behaviors. Teens are especially at risk of online dangers due to their extensive use of mobile computing devices and social networking sites.

To help readers avoid and recognize risky behaviors, The Truth About the Internet and Online Predators explains many of the dangers associated with the Internet. The A-to-Z entries detail the social, legal, and personal risks of Internet use, while personal testimonies and question-and-answer sections provide readers with an inside look at common issues online.

Entries include:

• Bullies and cyberbullying
• Characteristics of online predators
• Chat rooms and instant messaging
• Internet safety
• Parental control
• Peers and peer pressure
• Phishing and pharming
• Privacy issues
• Social networking Web sites
• Surfing and online communication.

Specifications

Charts and graphs. Index. Glossary. Further reading. Web sites. Hotlines.

About the Author(s)

Heath Dingwell, Ph.D., is an independent researcher and writer of nonfiction, specializing in education and health and wellness topics. He is also certified in stress management.