Your Neighbor's Secret Life Online: Protecting Families from Internet Conmen, Scammers and Predators

As computer technology becomes more powerful and pervasive, the Internet has emerged as an invaluable tool for information, research, and entertainment, but there is an unsavory, sometimes lethal side to the computer revolution as well. Investigative reporter Stephen Dean has been tracking — and helping prosecute — online predators since 1996. In this timely book, the Peabody Award-winning writer explains how to protect family and loved ones from criminals who can enter a home and drastically alter the lives of those in it with a few keystrokes. Dean uses insightful vignettes based on his personal experiences to expose the dangers waiting on the Internet for unsuspecting young people as well as their more mature but sometimes naïve elders. He provides proven tips for protecting and safeguarding against sexual predators, spammers, scammers, and thieves, as well as malicious software such as viruses, spyware, and adware.