If concerned, don't even set up newsgroup software. Most kids want to chat. Kids and teens should be taught to never give out personal information like their last name, town, school, etc. If may be o.k. to use these to register on web sites, but parents should be consulted first. Consider using parental control software such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or commercial products like those listed at PC Magazine's review at left.
Children can also cause trouble when online.
Check to see if your kids have Internet access through schools. Children have been known to use online services to harass others, intentionally search for illegal information, and get in legal trouble. Stay involved in your kids' online activities to prevent this from happening. Locally, the Granby Police Department and the Town of Hampden have pioneered in bringing these issues to the forefront.