The news provides frequent reminders of how the Internet can be used for unsavoury purposes as well as positive ends, such as education and opening a window on the world. To limit the spread of online ills such as pedophilia, invasion of privacy, bullying and extreme behaviour, citizens, technology providers, Internet service providers (ISPs), government and police departments must work together. Videotron recognizes that it has a responsibility as an ISP to fight the pernicious effects of the Internet.

Videotron’s Vigilance on the Net program is designed to educate Québec parents and teens about the dangers of the Internet and to provide them with tools and advice on how to protect themselves. Forewarned is forearmed: that applies to the Internet as it does to other areas.

The Beware on the Internet program was launched in spring 2007 with a revealing survey that showed differences in perception between Québec teens and their parents when it comes to what teens aged 12 and 17 do on the Internet. The survey results suggest that while parents are generally well informed about the nature and frequency of their teens’ Internet use, parents underestimate some practices that could place their kids in danger. The survey also shows that better control and communication helps curb dangerous online practices.

This site has been created in order to provide Quebecers with information and resources on Internet safety. In addition to useful information, it includes links to other resources and organizations that can help parents and kids who are experiencing Internet-related problems and need further assistance. It will also inform you about initiatives by Videotron and its partners to support Internet safety and computer security.

To help parents control their children’s Internet use, Videotron had decided to make its parental control software available free of charge to all subscribers to its Internet service who request it. See Videotron’s website for more information.

As part of its Vigilance on the Net program, Videotron is also conducting a major Québec-wide awareness-raising and education campaign targeting parents and kids aged 7 to 17.