Stumbling Into Smut::Kids Are Being Exposed

[take care]

Peer-to-peer networks are Internet programs that allow users to access each other’s computer files—otherwise known as “file sharing”. Every day, millions of minors, log onto these systems typically to share music, images and video.

Many parents allow their children to go on these popular internet file-sharing programs ---like Kazaa, Morpheus, and Grokster --- to “burn CDs” or other innocuous computer activities. But what Moms and Dads may not be aware of is that pornographers have infiltrated these networks and are sending pornographic images (much of it child pornography) to their kids--- whether they are looking for it or not.

. This is not about bad language or simple bad taste – these are ugly, graphic images that have no place around children.

In searches with keywords likely to be used by juveniles—such as Britney Spears, Pokemon, Olsen Twins—children are instead getting images that include a high proportion of adult, cartoon, and child pornography. In some cases the pedophiles are directing the porn to the kids and perhaps soliciting children via these networks.

The crisis for parents is that existing parental filters don\'t work to stop pornography getting to their children because these peer-to-peer networks don’t operate through central servers, so without a hub online to filter through, children can receive images that normally would be blocked.

This is no small operation either. These file-sharing programs are booming in popularity, especially among children and young adults. And the newest research shows that OVER 40% of those who are using these file sharing programs are under the age of 18. That’s MILLIONS of our children!

The government is trying to catch up to these pornographers on the internet. This issue was recently discussed in a GAO report and in detail at the March 13th House Government Reform Hearing: “Stumbling onto Smut: The Alarming Ease of Access to Pornography on Peer-to-Peer Networks” (you will need adobe acrobat to read this report) chaired by Rep. Tom Davis. The committee found basis for these allegations that children who are increasingly using these file sharing networks are being exposed to both adult and child pornography just by doing seemingly harmless searches for music, celebrities, or cartoon characters.

At this time, there is little chance to stop this disgusting pornography from getting to your children’s computer screens with filters or other means, because the truth is that the technology hasn’t caught up to the criminals. But here’s what parents can do in the mean time.
Recognize the Danger. Ask your children if they are using these programs and if so if they have seen pornography. Research indicates that children who discuss issues with their parents are less likely to engage in risky behaviors.


Reduce Opportunities for Misuse. Locate the computer in a common area and have regular shared internet sessions. Parents look over your kids’ shoulders and see what they are looking at or downloading.


Don’t Rely Too Much on Parental Filters. The current versions of many of the most popular parental filters don’t filter out pornography on file-sharing programs. While some programs do allow parents to block file sharing altogether, these options generally are not automatic. Parents wishing to use these products should be sure the programs are properly configured.

[Ghazala]

Thanks for sharing that, it did happen with my nephew (kaaza). Luckily we have a computer in an area where everybody can see what the other person is checking out and were able to shut it down almost immediately.