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Teen
Safety on the Information Highway
Basic
Rules of On-line Safety for Teens
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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