Do you know everyone who has your child's cell phone number? Have you ever talked to your child about inappropriate messages?

I was inspired to write this story when watching an NBC News Channel recently that had a report on spam cell text messages. I also looked around at just how many children and teenagers have cell phones.

The reports talked about parents sometimes think to monitor the computer internet usage but do think about the cell phone?

In South Carolina recently a Boy Scout Leader was arrested for obscene messaging to a 14 year old boy. In Florida, a teacher was caught for inappropriately texting a student for sexual liaisons. In Colorado, a man was captured contacting a 12 year old girl by getting her phone number through a social networking website.

A company called Radar markets a service that allows you to monitor text messages and cell phone calls. You pay a monthly fee and get online access. You make a list of approved numbers. If this phone receives a number not approved then you are immediately notified and you can view the content of all text messages.

Now some people feel that they are invading their child's privacy. My personal opinion is that it isn't that you do not trust your child. You have an obligation to protect that child. You have to stress this to your child - after all in most cases the parents pay this bill. (A report from the M:Mattrix says the average teen mobile phone bill ranges from $41 to $60 a month by themselves and parents foot the bill.) Most parents feel more comfortable with their child having a cell phone because they feel it is easier to stay in touch. There is nothing wrong with that as long as they are responsible.

Another option is a cell phone sim card that reads private data stored in a cell phone.

Spam texts are now targeting cell phone users. Oh, they may look innocent enough but they can be so inviting. One reporter said he received one that read "Looking for someone to chat with, check out my profile." It is an adult site offering to connect you with a woman wanting sex.

Did you know that spammers can get your private number by buying phone number databases over the internet?

Depending on the customer's cell provider, it can cost you up to .20 cents to simply receive the message.

If you receive a text message from someone you are unfamiliar with, do not respond. That will validate your private number.

Ferris Research, a company that tracks messaging services says 1.1 billion spam messages went out in 2007 (up 38% from last year).

The CAN-Spam act took effect in 2005 warning spammers that it is illegal. Many providers are suing spammers. If you get a spam message, notify your service provider. They may be able to block the messages or in some cases refund your bill. Otherwise the only way to avoid this annoyance may be to cancel your texting plan.

For your child's safety, please teach them how to block suspicious or unwanted numbers. Program ICE (in case of an emergency) with appropriate contact information so that police and other emergency personnel know who to call if the child needs help. This means you list a number so it appears as ICE on the alphabetical contact list.

For more information, go to www.mymobilewatchdog.com and www.brickhousesecurity.com/cellphone-spy.... I have not personally checked the websites but they were endorsed by the NBC News Channel.