The Newton County Sheriff's Office is taking a new approach to combat the ever-growing problem of cyber crimes in Newton County.

On a daily basis the Internet Crimes against Children (ICAC) Investigator examines cases that could have been prevented with basic common sense precaution. Taking a proactive approach to this hot-button issue, the sheriff's office's ICAC unit has put together an informative program - Reality Bytes: Cyber Safety Summit 2011.

This event is open to the community free of charge. It will take place between 6-9 p.m. Thursday at The Church at Covington. Booths will be open from 6-7 p.m. where valuable information and handouts will be available to the public to help educate them on the many precautions they should take when allowing their children to venture into the "cyber world."

Beginning at 7 p.m. there will be several presentations made by agencies such as the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Newton County District Attorney's Office, Juvenile Justice Fund, T-Mobile and a Victim Assistance Specialist for ICE. There will also be a special performance by the Alcovy High School Chorus members.

Due to generous donations from several community businesses, there will be many give-aways and door prizes at this event. The NCSO will also have software available to parents to help monitor their children's computer activity. This is a great opportunity for parents to attend with their children (over 12-years-old) to hear firsthand the very present dangers lurking in all the new technology at their fingertips.

To register for this event please email your name and number attending to ncsorealitybytes@yahoo.com or call (678) 625-1412. There are also flyers available at most Newton County Schools. By registering for the event you will be entered into a drawing for door prizes.