Disney's Safe Surf

Brandweek,  August 7, 2000  by Erik Gruenwedel

Tags: Disney Corp., Internet

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"If it swells, ride it," is a sophomoric quip that can conjure up visions of surfing--or sex. On the Internet, such ambiguity can lead children to pornographic sites or worse.

On Wednesday, Disney Online, a business unit of Burbank, Calif.-based Go.com, will launch SurfSwellIsland.com, an "interactive life preserver" designed to provide children and families with an entertaining way to learn about "smart surfing" and Internet safety.

Topics include "Netiquette," and sections focusing on computer viruses and Internet privacy. Users will be able to interact with games, quizzes and printables, according to (en Goldstein, executive vp and managing director of Disney Online.

An independent study of 4,000 parents commissioned by Disney.com found that more than 50 percent of the respondents were concerned about the risks children face when surfing the Web.

Said Goldstein: "Our goal ... was to provide this crucial resource in an engaging online environment where learning happens. naturally and with a healthy dose of fun."

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