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KMOV

(KMOV) - Many parents control the computer access in their homes to protect kids from Internet predators.

But we've discovered another piece of technology in your house that may fly right under your radar, but investigators say it poses just as big of a threat.

The internet poses a threat police are well aware of: predators constantly use the internet to make contact with children.

But even if you unplug the computer, it may not be enough.

Detectives who focus on internet crimes against children say game consoles, like the Xbox and Playstation 3, carry the newest threat.

Here's how it works: when your kid plays their system online, they have headsets communicators. It works the same as an internet phone. On the system they can also accept voice mail and email from complete strangers.

So when you're playing these games, you have direct voice contact with thousands of people from all over the world whether the actual solicitation occurs over the x-box or they meet on the internet then start this other relationship...but they already have that common bond, which is gaming.

Det. Mize says policing the online gaming is no different than the internet.

First, use the family settings to control access.

Also use the game rating system and make sure your kids are playing age-appropriate games.

Put the Xbox or Playstation in the same room and monitor their activities, and turn on the speakers so you can hear what they're saying, if you allow them to use the headset.

Parents also need to warn children that people on the net are strangers.

There are also websites parents need to know about that encourage contact between members "runescape" is one of those, it's like a dungeons and dragons game.

There are resources for parents and children on the web.One is "Project Safechildhood", run by the department of justice: www.projectsafechildhood.gov/

Another is "INOBTR.org" with info to keep parents and kids up to date on internet dangers: www.inobtr.org/intro.aspx