Azernews.Az

By Nigar Orujova

Computer stores are the first link in protecting children against the negative effects of the Internet, the Azerbaijan's Communications and High Technologies Ministry said on August 25.

The Ministry noted that the computer retail is the first stop from which it is needed to start solving this problem, as parents buy PCs for their children at such stores.

"One of the initiatives can be educating computer sellers by providing them with a vision how to protect a child from the negative sides of the Internet," the Ministry said.

The Ministry stressed that this is a global problem. To solve the problem, Azerbaijan has supported a regional initiative by the Odessa National Academy of Telecommunications.

The initiative was presented at the World Telecommunication Development Conference, held in Dubai on March 30-April 10. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) directly finances the project.

"Azerbaijan supports this initiative and stands ready to contribute to its implementation. Unfortunately, the specific mechanisms for implementation of the initiative have not yet been developed. Azerbaijan is implementing projects aimed at protecting children from the Internet's negative effects," the ministry stressed.

A service called 'Safe Education Internet', promoted as part of the 'AzEduNet' educational network, is an example of such projects in Azerbaijan.

"This project covers secondary education schools. Nevertheless, the problem needs to be considered globally, and it is necessary to hold a conference on this topic at least once a year. The conference can be attended by representatives of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, the Interior Ministry and other structures," the Ministry added.

Earlier, Electronic Security Center proposed a software solution aimed at prevents children from accessing inappropriate content.

The software allows blocking access to prohibited Internet sites and programs, generates reports, and schedules the PC's usage.

The Center also prepared proposals to protect children from the side effects of the Internet. These proposals mainly provide educational work for secondary school teachers and parents.

Obviously, to protect children from the affects of the Internet, it is necessary for parents to be aware of the dangers that child can face online.

Aggression and distraction are not the only negative aspects of the Internet. The list of the affects also includes pornography, religious sects, drugs, and online dating, which may lead even to human trafficking.