Getting information off the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant. -Mitchell Kapor
Most of us are ‘connected’ via our laptops, mobile phones, tablets or personal computer. The potential for the internet to be a valuable and a fun resource for entertainment, making friends, keeping in touch and learning is huge. But if you use the internet, you could be at risk of illegal activity or abuse - be it bullying, fraud or something more serious. Unlike seeing someone face to face, on the net, people aren't always what they first seem.
In the same way you learn about safety when you leave the house, it is important to learn how to stay safe online. These are skills that will stay with you for life.
Golden Rules for Internet Safety:
- Don't give out personal information such as your address or phone number.
- Don’t send pictures of yourself to anyone, especially indecent pictures.
- Don't open emails or attachments from people you don't know.
- Don't become online ‘friends’ with people you don't know.
- Never arrange to meet someone in person who you've met online.
- If anything you see or read online worries you, tell someone about it.
- NetSmartz - NetSmartz is a great all-around resource for educators, parents, and students of all ages. It includes videos, activity cards, presentations, tips, and pledges.
- Kids.gov - List of website links for students, teachers and families to interact with online safety.
- KidsSafe.com - On-line safety and civility advice and tools for families
- Enough is Enough: Internet Safety 101 - This program was developed to educate, equip, and empower parents and educators with the knowledge and resources they need to protect children from the online dangers of pornography, sexual predators, cyberbullies and threats related to social networking, online gaming and mobile devices.
- Internet Safety: Common Sense Media - Articles that foster safe, responsible online behavior and avoid online threats like cyberbullying, unwelcome contact, and digital drama.