The programming languages Java and JavaScript add interactivity to Web sites - but they also pose serious safety and security risks to Internet users. Many pornographic Web sites employ a JavaScript command that disables your browser's Back button, or else automatically launches another porn site every time you try to close your browser. Getting out of this "porn loop" may involve closing several windows before you can completely shut down your browser.

To avoid these problems, you can disable Java and JavaScript in your browser:

• If you use a Netscape browser, select Edit, Preferences, and Advanced, and then deselect Enable Java and Enable JavaScript.
  
  
• For Microsoft Internet Explorer, select Tools, Internet Options, Security and Custom Level. Scroll down until you see Java Permissions, then select Disable Java. Continue scrolling until you see Scripting, then disable Active Scripting and Scripting of Java Applets.

Once Java is disabled, kids can get off adult sites by using the Back button on the browser, or by closing down the window.

To avoid missing out on good sites that use JavaScript, turn it off when surfing or searching for sites - then turn it back on when you know you're on a safe site.