The statistics are staggering: one in three teenagers have been a victim of online bullying.  Nearly 60 percent of teens have been asked to send a sexually suggestive text and over 80 percent of those who have sexted are under the age of 18. Parents are concerned. Schools are concerned. Communities are concerned.  Internet Safety is more than just monitoring the time spent online, it involves issues that are serious and can pose a threat to mental and physical health for teens.

 

On October 7 and 8, the Bridgeport GFWC Juniors Club will be sponsoring Internet Safety presentations at the Benedum Civic Center.  The free, interactive presentations are designed for those in middle and high school and parents are encouraged to attend with their teens.  From 6-8 p.m. each night, Cybersecurity Expert Lee Gibson will discuss the dark web, sexual predators, sexting, cyber bullying, suicides related to cyber bullying, human trafficking and other general safety tips.

 

School policy and state law regarding online offenses will also be discussed with special guest Jami Cooper of Cooper Law Offices.  Gibson and Cooper have extensive experience in cyber safety and policy and will field questions as they arise. With a background in law enforcement and digital forensics, Gibson has spent nearly 20 years educating the public about cyber risks and how to prevent cybercrimes.

 

“If kids don’t communicate, parents don’t know about their depression, suicidal thoughts, interactions with strangers, bullying or sext requests,” said Gibson. “This workshop is designed to address these issues and give parents and children opportunities to understand the repercussions of online activity and protect those affected.”

 

Bridgeport GFWC Junior Woman’s Club is committed to giving back to the community in every way possible. By hosting the Internet Safety programs, they are providing an opportunity for families to learn what can be done to ensure their kids are safe and informed.  The October 7 workshop will primarily be designed to work with middle school and high school boys and their families and the October 8 presentation will be geared more toward girls.  If a family is unable to attend a gender-specific session, all are welcome at either presentation.  

 

Those interested in additional information or who plan to attend can contact Bridgeport Junior representative Sarah Dummer at sedummer@gmail.com.