CryptGuard, an identity verification vendor, is looking for outside PR counsel for its encryption and data protection software that not only services businesses but also is designed to prevent kids from e-mailing and instant messaging with online predators.

"How do you know who you're talking to on Facebook and MySpace?" asks CryptGuard CTO Brian Pederson. The Canada-based firm's "Guardian Angel" software produces a digital certificate that proves who you are on the web, like a digital passport, according to Pederson. The idea is to only let your child instant message or e-mail with someone else who has a digital certificate.

Pederson notes that the certificate cannot be traced back to the user and only age and gender is embedded for others to see.

Parents have to apply for the certificate and must download forms online and get them signed by a school administrator and a family physician. Cost is $20/year with discounts available for multi-year certificates.

CryptGuard, started in 2005, is a competitor with other online digital encryption certificate firms like VeriSign, but those firms have never addressed personal computer needs.

The RFP can be obtained from tschidakabat.com. The chosen agency will likely start in December for an initial 6 month term with consecutive option terms. CryptGuard's website is www.cryptguard.com.