Hobbies and Interests

What are cyber predators? An internet predator or cyber predator is like a sexual predator but that operates on the internet. They fake to be nice and try to obtain the trust of a young girl or boy so they can meet them in a private location online or offline. Most of the time they greet kindly like “Hey, how are you long time no see.”These persons try to sexually exploit children through the use of social media sites, like Facebook. Some of these individuals progressively seduce their targets through the use of attention, affection, kindness, and even gifts. They are often willing to devote large amounts of time, money, and energy in this process. They listen to and empathize with the children problems or other concerns. They will be aware of the latest music, hobbies, and interests of children. These individuals main goal is to meet with the victim offline. What are cyber predators doing to achieve their objectives? They are using the Internet to harm our children offline.What are cyber predators doing to track their victims? They are taking advantage of the photos we share online. Why is that? The answer is very simple, the photos we take with our Smartphone’s contain what is called geotag capabilities. This means that each photo has electronic information on it that can be used to trace our location. These criminals are well aware that the photos we share online provide them with location information that could lead them directly to your home and your children. Cyber predators are using technology for the wrong reasons. Scary, isn’t it?Cyber predators are capitalizing on the fact that just about anyone can get their hands on easy to use software which can pinpoint the exact location of where your pictures were taken. They are simply downloading free browser plug-ins like Exif viewer for Firefox or Opanda IExif for Internet Explorer. These programs help them identify of where the photo was taken, and helps them create a Google map with directions to your home.But what we can do to keep our kids safe? What are the tools we can use to keep these cyber predators away? The good news is that there are ways to eliminate the location information from your digital photos. You can disable the geotag function from your Smartphone. If you don’t know how to do this, check your phone user manual for details. There are websites that can show you how to do it. For me; the best tool is to install VPN (virtual private network) software with the capability to eliminate your location information. How does a VPN work? A VPN creates a secure tunnel through the Internet controlling the traffic to and from your computer or mobile devices. You create your own private Internet, and become anonymous online.But you know, the best tool to protect your children from what cyber predators are doing, is to be a good parent. Be close to them, listen to them, and be there for them. Parenting with a little help from technology will do the trick.

Speed dating events are a really fun way to meet other singles. They take a lot of the pressure off. But to get the contact information (and a possible second date) with the person you are interested in you need them to be interested in you as well. So how do you stand out from the crowd. I am going to give you two solid basics plus one secret weapon to get you noticed.#1. Good grooming. This one is pretty obvious, but sometimes overlooked. First impressions do count, especially at a speed dating event. Wash your hair and smell nice. Wear a fashionable outfit. You will be surprised at how far it can take you.#2. Be prepared. Have a list of interesting, but not too personal questions to ask your dates. And then listen. Don’t assume that it will just flow on it’s own. Questions about their hobbies and interests are always good. Try things like, “What is your favorite movie?”, and “What do you like to read?” are good ones to start out with. Above all else make sure you smile (and if appropriate laugh).#3. The secret ingredient. Use pheromone perfumes or colognes. They can really give you an edge over others who are not using them. What pheromone products do is enhance your basic personality. They make you seem more attractive and interesting. It is important that you only buy quality (there is plenty of junk out there) and practice with them before wearing them to a big speed dating event.