Hackers are increasingly targeting children to spread viruses and malware on the Internet. Anti-virus firm Avast, which recently detected viruses on more than 60 online gaming sites, says some sites solely exist to spread viruses to home computers through children.

How can you help protect the information stored on your computer while your kids are surfing the Net?

1. Monitor usage. Put your computer in a common area where you can keep your eye on your children when they’re using it. (Hint: Use headphones if the sounds are distracting.)

2. Keep your computer, including applications and Internet browser, updated at all times. All modern operating systems can be configured to automatically check for and install updates.

3. Install and update anti-virus protection. Many Internet service providers offer free anti-virus software to their high-speed Internet customers, so be sure to install it.

4. Create separate user accounts within Windows for each child and make sure they are not configured as administrators. This can reduce a virus’ ability to infect the computer.

5. Enable parental controls. Modern versions of Windows allow you to restrict where your kids can go online, what hours they can use the computer and what software applications they can use. Sites like YouTube offer a "safe mode" to help filter content.

Protection and controls are helpful but nothing is 100 percent foolproof. It’s also important to talk to your children about age-appropriate Internet sites, instruct them not to click on ads or other pop-ups, and review your expectations of online behavior. It’s especially important to reinforce that if strangers approach them in cyberspace, just as they should if it happens in the real world, they should run away and tell an adult immediately!

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Hawaiian Telcom information security officer Beau Monday is a local cybersecurity expert. Reach him at Beau.Monday@hawaiiantel.com.