Nov. 1--Parents: Keep an eye on your children's online activity.

That was part of the message to parents at an hour-long Internet safety workshop Saturday morning in Fairview Heights.

Illinois State Police Trooper Ralph Timmins gave the presentation about social networking sites, instant messages, cell phone chatting, cyber bullying and other aspects of Internet safety at the New Christian Fellowship Church.

"It's a scary world out there," Timmins said, mentioning online predators who can pose as anyone they like.

Timmins suggested that children not use their real names or other identifying information in their screen names. He also said it's a good idea for parents to be online friends and buddies with their children, so they can monitor their social networking and online chat accounts.

Also, he encouraged parents to not allow their children to have any suggestive photos or online friends who the parents do not know.

He said online predators often play off the insecurities of young people. After months of chatting online and building trust with a child, the predator's ultimate goal is usually to meet the child outside of the home, Timmins explained.

Lonnie Hampton said he learned "to be more cautious" about online predators.

He attended the presentation with his wife, Serease Hampton, their three daughters and one of their daughters' friends.

"We're going to monitor our kids' online activity," Serease said. "And make sure that we're on their pages."

Lonnique Hampton, 14, said she has had her Yahoo account since she was 11. Last year, she formed an AOL account.

"I might have to make a new AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) because my name is in the thing," said the ninth grader at Belleville East High School.

For more information about Internet safety, visit NetSmartz.org.

Contact reporter Maria Baran at mbaran@bnd.com or 239-2460.

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