JEFFERSON CITY - As the internet expands in unpredictable ways, lawmakers are trying to keep up with the fast paced changes to keep web-surfers safe.
Internet harassment, often called "cyber-bullying" can be a frustration and hurtful experience for those online. Internet bullies are usually anonymous, making it difficult for law enforcers to deter such behavior.
But the death of 13-year old Megan Meier spurred lawmakers and law enforcers to consider how to keep online predators from coming into the home.
Governor Blunt's Internet Harassment Task Force met Tuesday to reconsider current stalking and soliciting statutes to protect children from online harassment. The task force considered how to best filter out unwanted conduct online.
"Some sites have implemented techniques and measures so they can monitor even the words that are typed into instant messaging or the types of conversations people are having," explained Netchoice analyst Braden Cox. "There are certain keywords that will pop up, which are indicators, of perhaps, something bad going on."
The best way to avoid harassment or unwanted socilation is by monitoring your children's websites and online chats, using website filters, and talking to your children about internet safety.