Safety program aimed at children using Net

ST. LOUIS -- A program launched Thursday is aimed at helping educate Missourians about ways to protect their children from online predators.

Gov. Matt Blunt and federal prosecutor Catherine Hanaway appeared at an event about the new INOBTR, or I Know Better, program, though it is privately funded. The name reflects the type of electronic shorthand often used in online communications.

The program involves a new Web site, www.inobtr.org, with sections dedicated to teens, parents and teachers. It includes tools like a glossary to help parents understand the abbreviations their children are using online. It also provides tips to help children understand how to protect themselves and their personal information while online.

Despite all the efforts to catch sex criminals trying to entice children over the Internet, police, parents, government and business leaders say more is needed to help children stay safe online.

"I know from experience we can't arrest our way out of this problem," said Lt. Joe Laramie of the Glendale Police Department in suburban St. Louis.

Laramie said one of the central messages is that children should be just as cautious with someone they don't know online as they would be with a stranger on the street. It also stresses that predators on the Internet often misrepresent themselves, posing as children themselves or harmless friends.

"Unfortunately, evil people have tried to use the Internet for evil purposes, and all too often succeeded," Blunt said.

Singer Nick Lachey is serving as the celebrity spokesman for the campaign.