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Technology Safety & Advocacy

This special collection includes a categorized and annotated listing of selected articles, fact sheets, papers, reports and other materials regarding the use of technology as it impacts and intersects with violence against women and children. It is offered as an additional tool to assist advocates working on and interested in the safe use of technology. Items may be cross-referenced for ease of use. Comments and content suggestions are welcome via VAWnet’s Online Contact Form.

This resource was developed in collaboration with the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, and SafetyNet: the National Safe & Strategic Technology Project of the National Network to End Domestic Violence.

Glossary

This brief glossary contains some technology terms that are commonly referenced within the resources of this special collection.

AdWare: aka pestware, is software that once downloaded, might deliver "popup" advertising or collect data about specific computer or internet activites such as online shopping. See also, Spyware.
Blog: Short for Web log, a personal journal posted online that is often publicly accessible.
Cookie: A text file that allows a Web site to store information on a user's machine and later retrieve it.
Cache: A temporary storage area where recently used information is placed so your computer can access it faster.
Cyberstalking/Cyberbullying/Cyber Threats: (Defined below under “Technology-Assisted Abuse”)
E-mail: A way to send electronic messages via the Internet between computers to email addresses.
Firewall: A computer security system that prevents unwanted or unauthorized data from entering or leaving your computer or network.
GPS: The Global Positioning System maps the latitude and longitude of an individual GPS device/receiver via a worldwide system of navigational satellites and receivers.
History: In a computer's Web browser, it is a detailed list of websites visited and searches completed on certain days. This history is stored in various parts of the computer's memory and can be difficult to completely erase.
Instant Messaging: Abbreviated IM, a service that enables someone to "chat" in real time over the Internet with one or more individuals by typing and sending electronic text. Sometimes IM includes realtime sound and video transfers.
Phishing: Pronounced "fishing," are online scams to steal valuable information such as credit card and social security numbers, user IDs and passwords.
Social Networking: This term describes how groups of people are creating "virtual communities" on the Internet to communicate with each other.
Spam: Unwanted "junk" email, often mass-mailed advertising or marketing material.
Spyware: aka malware, stalkware, is surveillance software or hardware that enables an unauthorized third party to secretly monitor and gather information about the user's computer use without his or her knowledge or consent, sometimes from a remote location.
Trojan Horse: A computer program that appears legitimate but performs some illicit activity when it is run. It is similar to a virus, except that it does not replicate itself.
Virus: A program that invades and "infects" your computer, in various ways with different levels of severity. Some viruses only infect one application/program, while others can infect your entire computer system.
Worm: A destructive program that replicates itself throughout disk and memory, using up the computers resources and eventually shutting the system down.

For more information on technology language, see “Language & Definitions” below or visit Webopedia, an online dictionary and search engine for computer and Internet technology definitions.

Table of Contents


Technology-Assisted Abuse & Safety
Abusers and perpetrators use technology in various ways to harass, threaten, surveille, exploit, and violate their victim(s). Some technology-assisted abuse is also referred to as cyberstalking or cyberbullying.
General
  • 2009 AP-MTV Digital Abuse Study Executive Summary PDF (6 p.) by Janice Gatti, MTV & Associated Press (2009)
    This study provides an in-depth look at the prevalence of digital abuse among young people. It was designed to quantify how young people are affected by and respond to issues like sexting, digital harassment and digital dating abuse. [More Info]
  • Violence Against Women on the Internet HTML by Diane L. Rosenfeld, Harvard Law School, Berkman Center for Internet & Society (2002)
    This series of 5 online learning modules explores the various ways in which violence against women is facilitated through the use of the Internet, as well as ways in which the Internet may be used as a site of resistance to such violence. [More Info]
  • A High-Tech Twist on Abuse PDF (5 p.) by S. Tucker, T. Cremer, C. Fraser, & C. Southworth, Family Violence Prevention Fund (December 2005)
    This piece, Article in Volume 1, Issue 2 of the online journal: Family Violence Prevention and Health Practice, describes how abusers are using technology against victims and how victims can use technology to enhance safety. [More Info]
  • A High-Tech Twist on Abuse: Technology, Intimate Partner Stalking, and Advocacy PDF (22 p.) HTML (22 p.) TXT (22 p.) by C. Southworth, S. Dawson, C. Fraser, & S. Tucker, Violence Against Women Online Resources (2005)
    This paper highlights published literature and survivor's reports on the use of technology in intimate partner stalking. It includes safety strategies and a resource list for victim advocates. [More Info]
  • Comments on the Federal Trade Commission's Spyware Workshop PDF (5 p.) by Cindy Southworth, MSW of the National Network to End Domestic Violence, Federal Trade Commission
    In an effort to assist the FTC with its careful evaluation of the issues surrounding the proliferation of spyware software and technology, NNEDV submited comments emphasizing the dangers to victims of domestic violence that result from the use of spyware. [More Info]
  • Covering Your Tracks: How to Keep an Abuser from Viewing Your Internet Activity PDF (7 p.) by North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault, National Sexual Assault Coalition Resource Sharing Project (2004)
    This article offers safety tips for individuals who are concerned that an abuser may be tracking their computer activities. [More Info]
  • Digital Dangers: Information & Communication Technologies and Trafficking in Women PDF (12 p.) by Kathleen Maltzahn (2005)
    This paper discusses the ways that the internet and other information and communication technologies aid the trafficking of women. [More Info]
  • Every Step You Take… Every Move You Make… My GPS Unit Will Be Watching You PDF (8 p.) HTML (8 p.) by Michael Rosenwald, Popular Science Magazine (November 2004)
    This article describes several tactics employed by abusers to track victims using technology. “Technology may be ushering in a golden age of stalking, in which predators use GPS, cellphones and other devices to track and terrorize.” [More Info]
  • How an Abuser Can Discover Your Internet Activities HTML (1 p.) by American Bar Association
    This tip sheet describes safety risks to victims of abuse online including tips for hiding “tracks” in email, browser history, and cache. Taking the suggested steps does not guarantee safety – it is recommended that victims seek a safer computer. [More Info]
  • Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence Newsletter PDF (12 p.) HTML (12 p.) by Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence (Summer 2003)
    The Summer 2003 issue of the KCASDV Newsletter includes articles on Cell Phones, Internet Safety, Offensive Websites, Privacy, and Cyber Crimes. Also includes a glossary of commonly used tech terms. [More Info]
  • New Frontiers of Stalking - Video Voyeurism PDF (2 p.) by Newsletter Volume 3, Number 1, Stalking Resource Center (Winter 2003)
    This article provides an overview of stalkers’ use of new technology to monitor their victim's movements, and discusses legal protections for victims of video voyeurism. [More Info]
  • Some Safety Considerations around using Technology HTML
    This resource page explores issues associated with the safe use of technology. [More Info]
  • Technology Safety Planning with Survivors PDF (1 p.) by SafetyNet: National Safe & Strategic Technology Project, National Network to End Domestic Violence (Revised 2005)
    This one page handout offers 12 technology safety tips to discuss with someone who may be in danger. It is available in the following seven languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Somali, and Russian. [More Info]
Use of Technology to Stalk (Cyberstalking)
The use of technology to stalk is sometimes referred to as "cyberstalking." Some abusers and "cyberstalkers" target their victims through chat rooms, message boards, discussion forums and e-mail. Defined broadly, the term has been used to encompass stalking using any technology including global positioning systems (GPS), cell phones, cameras and more. (From: Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime & The Stalking Resource Center)
  • Cyberstalking PDF (2 p.) by Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime
    This article contains an overview of cyberstalking and offers tips for those who have been victimized. [More Info]
  • Cyberstalking: A New Challenge for Law Enforcement and Industry TML by U.S. Attorney General (1999)
    Cyberstalking: A New Challenge for Law Enforcement and Industry by the U.S. Attorney General (August 1999) is the response to Vice President Al Gore's mandate to study the cyberstalking problem and recommend how to protect people from this threat. [More Info]
  • Cyber Stalking, Abusive Cyber Sex and Online Grooming: A Programme of Education for Teenagers PDF (33 p.) by Rachel O'Connell, Joanna Price, & Charlotte Barrow (2004)
    This document provides information about abusive behaviors that young people may encounter online. [More Info]
  • New Frontiers of Stalking - Video Voyeurism PDF (2 p.) by Newsletter Volume 3, Number 1, Stalking Resource Center (Winter 2003)
    This article provides an overview of stalkers’ use of new technology to monitor their victim's movements, and discusses legal protections for victims of video voyeurism. [More Info]
  • No. 166: Cyberstalking PDF (6 p.) by Emma Ogilvie, Australian Institute of Criminology (September 2000)
    This paper examines cyberstalking as an example of a crime that is simultaneously both amenable to, and resistant of, traditional forms of legislation, depending upon the way in which the possibilities of the Internet are exploited. [More Info]
  • Online Harassment and Cyberstalking: Victim Access to Crisis, Referral and Support Services in Canada - Concepts and Recommendations PDF (17 p.) by Randy McCall, Victim Assistance Online Resources (October 2003)
    This paper examines the laws, policies and procedures surrounding technological crimes; addresses the lack of technology crime victims’ services; and recommends the creation of reporting, referral and support service for victims of Internet crimes. [More Info]
  • Stalking Technology Outpaces State Laws HTML (3 p.) by Newsletter Volume 3, Number 2, Stalking Resource Center (Summer 2003)
    Reviews state statutes and laws regarding the use of stalking technology including recent court decisions. Includes laws on “electronic communications,” “electronic conduct,” and “posting electronic messages.” [More Info]
  • Web Savvy: Using the Internet Safely HTML (2 p.) by North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault, National Sexual Assault Coalition Resource Sharing Project (2004)
    This resource provides valuable information and helpful tips for keeping safe from cyberstalkers while online. [More Info]
Use of Technology to Bully (Cyberbullying)
Cyberbullying refers to the practice of using technology to harass, or bully, someone else. A cyberthreat is online material that threatens or raises concerns about violence against others, suicide, or other self-harm. (From: The Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use)
  • Dealing with Cyberbullies HTML (2 p.) by Mindi McDowell, US-CERT (2006)
    This article offers information about cyberbullying, describing what it is, why it has become such a problem, and ways that individuals can protect themselves from cyberbullies. [More Info]
  • An Educator's Guide to Cyberbullying and Cyberthreats PDF (16 p.) by Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use (2005)
    This document provides information about cyberbullying and cyberthreats for educators and other professionals whose focus is youth safety and well-being and provides recommendations for approaches to address these concerns. [More Info]
  • A Parent's Guide to Cyberbullying and Cyberthreats PDF (9 p.) by Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use (2005)
    This guide provides parents with information on how they can prevent their child from being victimized by or engaging in harmful behavior online, as well as intervention techniques. [More Info]

Internet Sex Crimes
Sex crimes can be defined as “Internet-related” in any of the following situations:
  • An offender-victim relationship is initiated online
  • An offender who is a family member or prior acquaintance of a victim uses the Internet to A) Communicate with a victim to further a sexual victimization, or B) Otherwise exploit the victim
  • Sex crimes that are exposed through internet-related undercover investigation
  • Child pornography that is received or distributed online, or arrangements made toward this end
  • Child pornography found on a computer, on removable media such as floppy and compact disks, as computer printouts, or in a digital format.

(From: Internet Sex Crimes Against Minors: The Response of Law Enforcement by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, 2003)


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  • The National Juvenile Online Victim Study: Methodology Report PDF (17 p.) by K. Mitchell, J. Wolak, and D. Finkelhor, Crimes Against Children Research Center (2009)
    Information from a national sample of law enforcement agencies about the prevalence of arrests for and characteristics of Internet sex crimes against minors. [More Info]
  • Child-Pornography Possessors Arrested in Internet-Related Crimes: Findings from the National Juvenile Online Victimization Study PDF (64 p.) by Janis Wolak, David Finkelhor, & Kimberly Mitchell, NCMEC (2005)
    "This report focuses on a representative national sample of arrested offenders who possessed child pornography". The report includes major findings and conclusions from this sample and recommendations and resources for law-enforcement and prosecutors. [More Info]
  • Internet Sex Crimes Against Minors: The Response of Law Enforcement PDF (36 p.) by Janis Wolak, Kimberly Mitchell, & David Finkelhor, OJJDP (2003)
    This report provides an overview of arrests, types of crimes, characteristcs of offenders and ways that the criminal justice system is handling internet sex crimes against minors. [More Info]
  • Online Victimization: A Report on the Nation's Youth PDF (62 p.) by David Finkelhor, Kimberly Mitchell, & Janis Wolak, NCMEC (June 2000)
    This report describes the responses of youth who were surveyed about their use of the internet and experiences while online, which includes exposure to unwanted sexual material and harassment. [More Info]
  • Violence Against Children in Cyberspace PDF (96 p.) by Deborah Muir, ECPAT International (2005)
    "This report is intended to provide a framework for promoting recognition and understanding of the real risks of violence for children and young people in cyberspace and through the use of new technologies, in particular the internet and mobile phones." [More Info]
  • What to Do If Your Child Is Being Sexually Exploited on the Internet HTML (3 p.) by Colin Gabriel Hatcher (2001)
    This is a guide for parents on what to do and how to respond if your child has been exploited through the internet. It offers information about warning signs as well as tips on how to prevent this from happening to your child. [More Info]

Program Development & Use of Technology
(See also: Online Service Provision)
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  • Using the Internet CFM (10 p.) by TechSoup
    This page provides a list of useful articles and resources to help nonprofit organizations further their mission through more effective use of the Internet. [More Info]
  • Domestic Violence Organizations Online: Risks, Ethical Dilemmas, and Liability Issues PDF (22 p.) by Jerry Finn (August 2002)
    This paper outlines risk and liability issues related to Internet use by domestic violence organizations, suggests risk-management guidelines to protect them from liability, and includes recommendations to further understanding re: online services. [More Info]
  • Guidelines for Online Privacy Policies SHTML (2 p.) by Online Privacy Alliance
    These guidelines for member organizations of the Online Privacy Alliance provide standards for protecting individually identifiable information in an online or electronic commerce environment. [More Info]
  • Reshape Issue 3: Technology PDF (20 p.) by Sexual Assault Coalition Resource Sharing Project
    In this edition, Reshape explores the successes and challenges faced by coalitions around the country related to technology. The articles are intended to help coalitions use technology in the ways that best suit their needs. [More Info]

Online Service Provision & Counseling
Online Service Provision can include a wide range of communication approaches. It can: be asynchronous VS real-time, be text only VS multimedia, be requested from an unsolicited stranger VS known person, have its initial contact occur online VS an initial contact in-person or by phone, be crisis VS non-crisis, be individual/one-on-one VS a group online setting, be open door VS screened, be about peer resource sharing OR a counseling model OR another advocacy approach, be privileged communication VS confidential VS supoeanable, cross legal jurisdictions, professions, etc., and vary in its level of security. (From: Safety Net: National Safe & Strategic Technology Project at the National Network to End Domestic Violence.)
  • Assessing Organizational Readiness To Provide Online Advocacy & Services PDF (2 p.) HTML (2 p.) by C. Fraser, NNEDV Safety Net and C. Fribley, National Sexual Assault Resource Sharing Project, National Sexual Violence Resource Center (Spring/Summer 2005)
    Discusses how organizations can prepare to advocate with and support survivors around the use of online services. Includes safety, confidentiality and capacity issues that organizations should address when considering provision of online TA or counseling. [More Info]
  • Domestic Violence Organizations Online: Risks, Ethical Dilemmas, and Liability Issues PDF (22 p.) by Jerry Finn (August 2002)
    This paper outlines risk and liability issues related to Internet use by domestic violence organizations, suggests risk-management guidelines to protect them from liability, and includes recommendations to further understanding re: online services. [More Info]
  • CSWF Position Paper on Internet Text-Based Therapy HTML (3 p.) by Renee B. Lonner, MSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work Federation (2001)
    Presents the beliefs of the Clinical Social Work Federation who is opposed to the practice of Internet-based treatment, arguing that services cannot be delivered online because of the inherent nature of the service. [More Info]
  • Internet Characteristics and the Ethical Issues Raised by Online Counseling HTM (6 p.) by Stanley J. Gross, Ed.D., Help Horizons
    This article identifies six characteristics that shape the unique context of Internet communication: cue restriction, anonymity, confidentiality and privacy, lack of geographical boundaries, professional competency, and client competency. [More Info]
  • The Practical Aspects of Online Counseling: Ethics, Training, Technology, and Competency PDF (43 p.) by Michael Mallen, David Vogel, & Aaron Rochlen, The Counseling Psychologist (2005)
    This article addresses the strengths and limitations of online counseling. It also offers information on present guidelines for when and who online counseling may be appropriate. [More Info]
  • Providing Counseling Online: Because We “Can,” Should We? HTM (4 p.) by Pamela K. S. Patrick, Ph.D., Counseling Outfitters (2006)
    This article reviews characteristics of the typical online counseling consumer, risks associated with online counseling, and ethical issues to consider when thinking about implementing online counseling practices. [More Info]
  • Survivors of intimate violence seek help online: Implications of responding to increasing requests PDF (14 p.) by Ann Kranz (March 2001)
    Documenting a 1-year study of unsolicited email requests sent to VAWOR, this paper focuses on the nature of help-seeking emails and recommends that a strategic plan be developed to address safety, confidentiality and liability concerns of online advocacy. [More Info]
Sample Standards & Policies for Practice
  • 2005 ACA Code of Ethics: Section A. 12. Technology Applications (Page 6) PDF (20 p.) by American Counseling Association (2005)
    The Code establishes principles that define ethical behavior and best practices for ACA members. Section A.12. offers guidelines for the use of technology applications in counseling work re: benefits, limitations, access, informed consent, and web sites. [More Info]
  • Frequently Asked Questions: E-Therapy CFM (8 p.) by American Psychiatric Association Council on Psychiatry and Law
    This page answers basic questions from consumers about the use of “e-therapy,” addressing its effectiveness, applications, benefits, risks/limitations, ethics, etc. Offers several recommended resources for further reading. [More Info]
  • The Practice of Internet Counseling HTML (4 p.) by National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Center for Credentialing and Education, Inc.
    This document offers a statement of principles to guide the evolving practice of Internet counseling. It contains standard definitions of technology-assisted distance counseling, and compares it to traditional face-to-face counseling. [More Info]

Privacy & Data Security
General
  • Data Security Checklist to Increase Victim Safety & Privacy PDF (2 p.) by Safety Net: The National Safe & Strategic Technology Project, National Network to End Domestic Violence (2004)
    For use by local domestic violence and rape crisis service programs and other community service providers, this checklist is a starting point in discussing client safety and data security for agencies. [More Info]
  • Mail Forwarding Services Protect Victims of Abuse HTML by Family Violence Prevention Fund (September 1999)
    NewsFlash article describes the California Confidential Address Program (Cal CAP). California joins eight other states that have passed legislation addressing the needs of victims of domestic violence in this age of advanced technology. [More Info]
  • Postal Service - Release of Information: Final rule HTML (January 2005)
    This final rule increases options for privacy and security of U.S. post office box holders by amending U.S. Postal Service regulations on disclosure of information. [More Info]
  • Privacy, Technology and Criminal Justice Information: Public Attitudes towards Uses of Criminal History Information PDF (79 p.) by U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (July 2001)
    Summarizes findings on public attitudes toward the availability and use of individuals'criminal history records outside of the criminal justice system. [More Info]
  • Protect Your Phone Privacy / Proteja su Privacidad Telefonica PDF (2 p.) by Pennsylvania Coalition on Domestic Violence (April 1998)
    Provides U.S. national information for victims of domestic violence, harassment and stalking about their options in blocking telephone calls using "Caller ID", "Taking a Call", "line blocking", and "per call blocking". [More Info]
  • Protecting Your Privacy by Mindi McDowell, US-CERT (2004)
    This article offers information about protecting personal information online. Tips on how to know if your privacy is being protected and additional steps you can take to protect your privacy are also included. [More Info]
  • Secure File Deletion: Fact or Fiction? PDF (17 p.) by John R. Mallery, SANS Institute (2006)
    This document describes how information contained in deleted files on one's personal hard drive may be recoverable or found in other files. Describes methods for secure file deletion, including a list of resources for free and commercial tools. [More Info]
  • SSA Provides Assistance to Victims of Domestic Violence HTML (1 p.) by Social Security Administration, Social Security Online (November 1998)
    This fact sheet describes how to apply for a new Social Security Number (SSN), and highlights protective actions recommended by the Department Of Justice. [More Info]
  • Using Technology to Assists Judges, Communities, and Victims of Domestic Violence: Who’s Doing What PDF (3 p.) by Madelynn Herman, Knowledge & Information Services, National Center for State Courts (May 2005)
    This article describes efforts to use technology to assist victims of domestic violence through online protection order forms, electronic filing, statewide registries, automated victim notification programs, and other applications. Includes many resources [More Info]
Public Records Online
  • Online Data Vendors: How Consumers Can Opt Out of Directory Assistance and Non-public Information HTM (6 p.) by Privacy Rights Clearinghouse (Revised February 2006)
    This tip sheet includes steps to take to guard personal information from appearing in directory listings and public records. Includes a detailed listing of data vendors with complete contact information for each. [More Info]
  • Public Records on the Internet: The Privacy Dilemma HTM (10 p.) by Privacy Rights Clearinghouse (Updated March 2006)
    Discusses the privacy implications of making public records containing personal information available on the Internet. Lists 9 negative consequences and offers 11 recommendations for safeguarding personal privacy while upholding public policy requirements [More Info]
  • Voter Confidentiality Programs ASP (2 p.) by National Network to End Domestic Violence (August 2006)
    This document includes a chart of U.S. States with Address Confidentiality Programs or Confidential Voter Listings. Describes how voter registration is a public record and can be accessed by almost anyone. [More Info]
  • Voter Privacy in the Digital Age HTML (65 p.) PDF (65 p.) by Kim Alexander and Keith Mills, The California Voter Foundation (May 2004)
    Report on a nationwide, state-by-state survey on voter registration data and the privacy implications of data-gathering and dissemination practices. Designed to inform the development of policy solutions that address voter privacy in the digital age. [More Info]
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
The primary goal of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) Rule is to give parents control over what information is collected from their children online and how such information may be used. See this Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act at: http://www.ftc.gov/ogc/coppa1.htm.
  • Fact Sheet 21: Children's Online Privacy HTM (15 p.) by Privacy Rights Clearinghouse/UCAN (March 2006)
    This resource guide for parents/guardians provides information about the benefits of the internet for children as well as the dangers. It also offers a variety of links to resources, organizations and information. [More Info]
  • How to Protect Kids' Privacy Online PDF (2 p.) by Federal Trade Commission (2000)
    This fact sheet offers information to parents about the rules and requirements for website operators that were established by the FTC to make sure that children's privacy is protected online. [More Info]
  • How to Protect Kids' Privacy Online: A Guide for Teachers PDF (2 p.) by Federal Trade Commission (2000)
    This fact sheet offers information for teachers on the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act and provisions within the act that allow teachers to act on behalf of a parent during school activities online. [More Info]
  • Parents: Your Children are Protected By Law from Commercial Exploitation Online HTML (3 p.) by Colin Gabriel Hatcher (2001)
    This document provides a summary of the provisions found in the Child Online Privacy and Protection Act. This act was implemented to ensure that childrens' privacy is better protected when they are online. [More Info]
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
On January 5, 2006, the Violence Against Women Act of 2005 (VAWA) was signed into law by President George W.Bush. VAWA reauthorizes existing programs to combat domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking, and creates new ones to meet emerging needs of communities working to prevent the violence. See a summary of VAWA 2005 changes by the National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence Against Women [PDF]
  • An Update on VAWA & Confidentiality PDF (3 p.) by Safety Net: the National Safe & Strategic Technology Project, National Network to End Domestic Violence (January 2006)
    This document provides an analysis of HMIS-related provisions contained in VAWA 2005, signed into law on January 5, 2006. Describes how new VAWA provisions protect victim information under Section 3 and Section 605. [More Info]

Technology Terms & Definitions
Do you want to know how a computer's memory and operating system works? Or, do you want to understand how digital and analog phone signals are different to intercept? Learn about GPS and Bluetooth devices, cell phone viruses, encryption and firewalls, radio scanners, internet phone calls, home networking, instant messaging, and more through How Stuff Works: "Computer Channel" & "Electronics Channel."
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  • Chat Acronyms HTML (3 p.) by Staysafe.org
    This document provides a list of common chat abbreviations. [More Info]

Websites
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  • Technology Safety & Advocacy Web Site Listing HTML by VAWnet: The National Online Resource Center on Violence Against Women (September 2006)
    This listing of websites includes organizations working to promote the safe use of technology. [More Info]

General Technology Safety & Prevention
General
  • AOL/NCSA Online Safety Study PDF (11 p.) by Conducted by America Online and the National Cyber Security Alliance, National Cyber Security Alliance (December 2005)
    The results of a study of 354 adult internet users, to measure their understanding and awareness of online security issues and examine their firewall settings, anti-virus software, potential virus infections, parental control software, and spyware. [More Info]
  • Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks HTML (2 p.) by Mindi McDowell, US- CERT (2004)
    This article describes what social engineering and phishing attacks are and provides tips on how to avoid being a victim and what to do if you are a victim of these attacks. [More Info]
  • Email Safety: Take These Steps to Protect Your Home and Computer HTML (1 p.) by Safety.com
    This brief article offers basic precautions to ensure that your online experience will be more safe and secure. Includes tips about posting personal information, creating passwords, and opening attachments. [More Info]
  • Protecting Your Computer: Avoiding and Removing Spyware PDF (1 p.) by Anti-Spyware Coalition
    This one-pager includes steps one can take to install and maintain security software, and has tips for using caution on the internet. [More Info]
  • Putting Photos of Children and Young People on Websites PDF (2 p.) by Childnet International (2005)
    This fact sheet was designed to provide website editors with tips on the benefits and safety issues regarding placing photos of children on websites. [More Info]
  • Staying Safe on Social Networking Sites HTML (2 p.) by Mindi Mc Dowell, US- CERT (2006)
    This article offers safety tips for those using social networking sites. Information about social networking sites, the security risks involved with these sites and ways that users can protect themselves are covered in this resource. [More Info]
  • Uninvited Users at the Keyboard: Who's been Toying with your Computer? HTML (1 p.) by Safety.com
    This tip sheet provides simple computer security prevention measures that are recommended to safeguard your computer from intruders. [More Info]
  • Using Instant Messaging and Chat Rooms Safely HTML (2 p.) by Mindi McDowell & Allen Householder, US-CERT (2004)
    This article offers information on the dangers associated with tools that allow real-time communication. It also provides tips on how to use these tools safely. [More Info]
For Parents & Educators
  • Electronic Media and Youth Violence: A CDC Issue Brief for Educators and Caregivers PDF (24 p.) by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2008)
    This brief focuses on the phenomena of electronic aggression. Electronic aggression is defined as any kind of harassment or bullying that occurs through email, chat rooms, instant messaging, websites, blogs, or text messaging. [More Info]
  • The Truth Behind the Screen WMV by Hispanic Communications Network, Project Safe Childhood, U.S. Department of Justice
    This 4 minute webisode illustrates the dangers children face online and compels parents to get informed and involved and to supervise their children's Internet activity. Includes transcript. [More Info]
  • Blog Safety: Keeping Up With Your Child's Online Social Life PDF (10 p.) by Childnet International (2006)
    This guide for parents, caregivers and teachers provides information about blogging, social networking, and the importance of parent/caregiver involvement in children's online education and safety. [More Info]
  • Child Safety on the Information Highway HTML (12 p.) by Lawrence J. Magid (2005)
    This brochure is geared towards parents and offers information on the benefits and risks of being online and how they can reduce those risks and keep their children safe online. [More Info]
  • Keeping Children Safe Online HTML (2 p.) by Mindi McDowell & Allen Householder, US-CERT (2005)
    This article features information on the unique risks that children face online as well as simple steps that parents can take to keep their children safe online. [More Info]
  • Parenting Online PDF (8 p.) by Parry Aftab, Wired Safety (2006)
    This resource guide for parents contains tips on how to talk to your children about online safety, information about kid-friendly search engines and family friendly site, and information about tech tools available to help keep kids safe online. [More Info]
  • Social Networking Sites: A Parent's Guide PDF (4 p.) by Federal Trade Commission (2006)
    This document offers tips to parents on how they can talk to their children about social networking sites and using these sites safely. [More Info]
  • Top Ten Cyber Security Tips for Teens, Their Teachers and Families PDF (1 p.) by Stay Safe Online & CyberSmart
    This fact sheet provides 10 tips to increase online safety. [More Info]
  • Your Family and Spam PDF (3 p.) by Childnet International (2004)
    This fact sheet contains information for parents about "spam", or unsolicited commercial (or bulk) email. [More Info]
For Youth
  • Safe Blogging Tips for Teens PDF (1 p.) by Blogsafety.com (2006)
    This list provides teens with some basic tips on how to stay safe when blogging, such as thinking before posting photos and remaining as anonymous as possible. [More Info]
  • Social Networking Sites: Safety Tips for Tweens and Teens PDF (4 p.) by Federal Trade Commission (2006)
    This document offers tips to children and teens on how to stay safe while socializing online. It also provides a list of organizations where they can go to learn more about online safety. [More Info]
  • Teen Safety on the Information Highway PDF (24 p.) by Lawrence J. Magid (2003)
    This brochure, geared towards teenagers, provides an overview of the internet and some of its dangers. It includes basic tips on how to use the internet and how parents can talk to their teens about online safety. [More Info]
  • Top Ten Cyber Security Tips for Teens, Their Teachers and Families PDF (1 p.) by Stay Safe Online & CyberSmart
    This fact sheet provides 10 tips to increase online safety. [More Info]

Tips for Using Technology
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  • Browsing Safely: Understanding Active Content and Cookies by Mindi McDowell, US-CERT (2004)
    This article provides information about active content (JavaScript, Java, and ActiveX controls) as well as general information about cookies. It explores some of the hidden risks associated with each. [More Info]
  • Hints and Tips - Use of Adobe Acrobat HTML
    Hints and Tips - Use of Adobe Acrobat provides information on Portable Document Format (PDF) documents and links to Adobe Acrobat's web site for a free download of the Acrobat Reader. [More Info]
  • Make VAWnet Part of Your Day HTML
    A step-by-step guide on how to bookmark VAWnet and/or make it your homepage through your internet browser. [More Info]
  • Searching Legal Websites HTML
    Searching Legal WebSites provides some tips on how to search for legislative information. [More Info]
  • Understanding Anti-Virus Software HTML (2 p.) by Mindi McDowell & Allen Householder, US-CERT (2004)
    This article provides information about anti-virus software and how it works. [More Info]
  • The Use of Cookies HTML
    Use of Cookies describes what cookies do and how they are used. [More Info]
  • Using Wireless Technology Securely PDF (9 p.) by US-CERT (2006)
    This resource offers safety information for those using (or considering the use of) wireless technology. The information covers both home and public wireless security threats. A glossary of terms used is also included. [More Info]
  • Web Page Language Translation HTML
    Web Page Language Translation provides examples of free web-based language translation tools. [More Info]
  • Writing for the Living Web HTML (July 2002)
    Explores the issue of writing for dissemination via the web and provides helpful tips on how to write for the web. [More Info]
 October 25 2004 11:23 AM
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