FTC’s ‘Net Cetera’ Advises Parents on How to Talk to Their Kids About Internet Use

The Federal Trade Commission has issued an updated version of the popular free consumer guide, “Net Cetera: Chatting with Kids About Being Online.” The revised booklet contains updated information for parents and other adults to use when talking with kids about how to be safe, secure and responsible online.

The revision adds new topics that reflect changes in the online world since the guide was first issued in 2009. In the revised booklet, adults can find advice on how to talk with kids about mobile apps, using public Wi-Fi securely and how to recognize text message spam. The booklet also includes information about the recent changes to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act Rule.

“We’re pleased to put this incredibly popular free booklet back in the hands of parents, teachers and others who can help kids make good decisions about their online habits,” said Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “If the last version is any indication, this booklet will inspire good discussions with children about this important issue.”

More than 9.3 million copies of the original version of the booklet were distributed, making it one of the Commission’s most-requested publications. The new version can be ordered for free on the FTC’s bulk order site.

Information from the booklet is also available online at OnGuardOnline.gov, the federal government’s website to help Americans be safe, secure and responsible online, as well as on consumer.ftc.gov, the FTC’s consumer information site.      

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or Spanish, visit the FTC’s online Complaint Assistant or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). The FTC enters complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 2,000 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. The FTC’s website provides free information on a variety of consumer topics. Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.