Cyberangels ^Å^ Information

Q: I have no experience, can I still help?

A: Yes, one of the best things about Cyberangels is that we train. We have basic classes for learning IRC and other such programs we use. Our classes range from how to use simple Internet communication programs, to how to find cybercriminals.

Q: I want to be in Net patrol, and have no experience, can I?

A: Net Patrol has several teams. They are open to all volunteers, by invitation only, though. If you feel that you have a special skill which is important to our Net Patrol work, let us know. Otherwise, you are welcome to apply, but need to understand that our Net Patrol teams are limited in size. Also, a full background check may be required for your participation in Net Patrol, if you are selected. But if you aren't selected, don't worry. We have many other teams and divisions in Cyberangels that are just as important to helping others online, like our Cybermoms and Dads program which help parents, teachers and kids learn how to use the Internet safely, and our support team which helps people who need a helping hand and a kind voice. So look around, there's more to Cyberangels than just Net Patrol!

Q: I want to start a cyberangels in my city, town, province, state etc....

A: We do not have chapters, or home headquarters, we are an online organization. We operate almost exclusively online. If you are interested in being able to speak to community groups and schools, you are welcome to join our Cybermoms and Dads program. Their Outreach Program is one of our few "on the ground" programs. Otherwise, join us...we're the only truly worldwide group, without borders...just like the Internet! so this is our base of operations.

Q: How much time do I need to commit to?

A: Only as much as you can. We have basic classes that need to be taken and these classes range from 20-45 minutes in length each. Thereafter, you may want to take other classes, which vary in time. Certain divisions and teams require more time than others, for example, most members of Net Patrol donate about 20 hours a week or more, while many CAST members may only donate 5 hours a week.] One of the things you should consider when choosing a home team is the number of hours you will be able to contribute on a regular basis. And don't worry about fluctuations in time, all of us have families, and other obligations, and we are very flexible on time commitments. All you have to have to be a Cyberangel is a caring heart.

Q: Can I go online and pretend to be a child to help catch pedos?

A: NO! We work closely with law enforcement, and that's there job, not ours. If a Cyberangel is found violating our code of conduct and going "undercover" posing as a child or a victim, they will be terminated immediately. We work closely enough with law enforcement agencies that the rules that apply to them regarding entrapment and civil rights of victims are likely to apply to us as well, and we always want to see the cybercriminals in jail, rather than going free because a well-meaning volunteer did something wrong in the communication. Also, since law enforcement members are often trolling the same rooms we would, if trying to lure a cyberpredator, our well-meaning attempts to pose as a victim and lure a cyberpredator into exposing himself would get in the way of ongoing investigations, and may blow a 6 month operation. We work WITH law enforcement, and don't try to BE law enforcement. That's why our cases result in arrests and jail time, and so many respected law enforcement agencies work with us willingly.

Q: I want to patrol a chat I frequent, like YAHOO! chat or AOL, or MSN, can I?

A: While some of you may use a special chat service and want to be helpful in patrolling those services for us, our patrols are handled only through our Net Patrol teams. Contact them to see if they want you to report unusual activity to them, or if you can join the team itself. You should also know that we have a special relationship with all the chat services to allow us to report cases directly to the right people. Once you join Cyberangels, all your cyber-safety, patrolling and reporting work has to be done through us and in accordance with our rules and code of conduct. Make sure you know these rules and follow them. It's the best way we know to make sure the "bad guys" are caught and held responsible for their acts.