Are Your Kids Playing It Cyber Safe?

	Teach your children the importance and respect of cyber ethics...

According to a new survey on Internet downloading ethics commissioned by the Business Software Alliance (BSA), it is the parents' primary responsibility to teach kids respect for copyrighted works from the Internet.

These include downloading music, movies, and software.

The survey found that 95% of participants believe it is a "big deal" if a young person shoplifts a software program, CD or DVD from a store, yet about 1 in 3 of those surveyed say downloading files on the Internet without permission is acceptable.

"Given how many children use computers and have Internet access at school, it is even more important that both parents and teachers take an active role in teaching computer ethics and safe computer use," said Diane Smiroldo, vice president of public affairs for BSA.

"With the survey confirming the unfortunate reality that many adults still think it's acceptable to download unauthorized copies of copyrighted works online, it is even more critical that we emphasize to our nation's youth the importance of cyber ethics and the respect for intellectual property at home and in school. Parents and teachers need to work together to ensure our young people are using computers and the Internet safely, are becoming good cyber citizens, and are respecting creative works online."

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