|
|
|
Basic Rules of
Online Safety for Kids |
| The most
important thing to remember is that when you're online in any kind of a
public forum, you're out in public and anyone can read whatever you post.
You should never post anything on the Internet that you wouldn't want known
to the public at large. You should also remember that people you meet in
cyberspace might not be who they seem to be. |
|
Keep Your Identity Private |
| If you're in any
type of public forum, avoid giving out your full name, your mailing address,
your telephone number, the name of your school, or any other information
that could help someone determine your actual identity. The same applies to
your family and friends. Never reveal anything about other people that could
possibly get them into trouble. |
|
Never Get Together With
Someone You "Meet" Online |
| The biggest danger
to your safety is if you get together with someone you "meet" online.
Remember, you never know for certain if people you meet online are who they
say they are. If you do feel it's appropriate to meet with someone, discuss
it with your parents and never go to the meeting by yourself. Arrange to
meet in a public place, like a coffee shop or mall that you (not just the
other person) are familiar and comfortable with, and never go alone. The
safest procedure is to have your parents talk with the parents of the other
person and for both of you to bring your parents along on the first meeting. |
|
Never Respond to E-mail,
Chat Comments, or Newsgroup Messages That Are Hostile, Belligerent,
Inappropriate, Or In Any Way Make You Feel Uncomfortable |
| It isn't your fault
if you get a message that is mean or in any way makes you feel
uncomfortable. If you get such a message, don't respond. Instead, show it to
your parents or a trusted adult to see if there is anything you can do to
make it stop. Sending a response just encourages the person. |
|
Talk with Your Parents About
Their Expectations and Ground Rules for Going Online |
| It's important that
you and your parents are on the same channel when it comes to your online
activities. This includes when you can go online, how long you can stay
online, and what activities you can do online. Communicating with your
parents doesn't mean that you have to give up your privacy. It just means
that you come to an agreement based on mutual trust and understanding. While
you're at it, perhaps you can help your parents better understand the
Internet, what it can be used for, and how it is helpful for teens. |
|
|
