Surfing Safe And Sound

The Internet is a great place to find information, learn new things and communicate with others. But like any other resource, it has its downside. Protect yourself from being a cyber-victim by following these simple tips.

• Talk with your parents about when and how you will use the Internet and send e-mails and instant messages. Together create a pledge all of you can sign. Review this pledge from time to time to see if any changes are needed.
• Never give out personal information — such as your name, address, phone number, school, a photo, where you like to hang out or whether you are home alone — to anyone who contacts you unless your parents say it’s okay.
• If you ever receive a message that frightens you or makes you uncomfortable, tell your parents (or your teacher, if you’re at school).
• Don’t make plans to meet in person anyone you’ve met online unless your parents give you permission and accompany you.
• Never share your password with anyone except your parents.
• Treat everyone on the Internet the same way you want to be treated. Don’t be rude or a bully. And don’t send a message when you’re angry — wait until you calm down.
• Don’t open any e-mails from senders you don’t recognize. Too see if an e-mail is from a sender who is safe, learn how to view the message’s source without opening the message itself.