Stranger Danger: Internet Safety

Not everyone on the internet are who they say they are…  Sometimes a stranger can try to gain your trust by pretending to be somebody they are not.  Remember that most often then not, responsible adults do not peruse online relationships with kids or teens  NEVER make plans to meet an “online” friend in person, especially without consent of your parents or guardian. Susie: Hi, my name is Susie and I am 12 and think you are really cool. You want to be friends?

Learn the 4 R’s  RECOGNIZE techniques used by online strangers/predators to deceive you.  REFUSE requests for personal information.  RESPOND assertively if you are ever in an uncomfortable situation online. Exit the program, log off or turn off the computer, tell a trusted adult, or call the police.  REPORT to a trusted adult any suspicious or dangerous contact that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Keep personal information to yourself  Never share personal information online, especially to someone you don’t know in person or on a website you don’t trust.  The most important things to avoid sharing are:  Your first and last name  Date of birth  Your telephone number or address  Photos of you or your family or your home  Any passwords or PIN numbers  Your parents credit card information

Location, Location, Location  It is also important to never reveal your location or future locations to strangers, or post in websites, blogs, or chats.  Remember not to share:  Where you go to school  Your hometown  Sports teams you play on, or where you practice for them  Extra-curricular activities

Create a “Favorite’s Bookmark”  With the help of your parents, locate some age appropriate websites that you really like, or can obtain relevant and reliable information, that your parents approve of.  Save them under favorites and have access to appropriate websites at your finger-tips  This decreases the chances of accidently coming across inappropriate and or websites that make you uncomfortable.

?? Into the unknown… ??  Never open s from unknown sources, DELETE them.  If you receive mean or threatening comments online, DON’T RESPOND, log off and tell a trusted adult.  Report any suspicious activity or if you ever feel uncomfortable about a person or a website.

Wrap up: What important things have we learned?  Sometimes strangers pretend to be someone they are not.  Never share personal information or location  Create your own favorites page for easy access  If you ever feel uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult immediately

Works Cited    Online Safety Rules