You probably know more about the Internet than your parents, right? But, even though you know your way around the web, it still makes sense to take care when you're online.
Whether you're visiting chat rooms, using instant messenger or just surfing the web, it's important to remember
that people you come across online aren't necessarily who they say they are.
You've probably heard of 'grooming' - when adults go into chat rooms and pretend to be a
lot younger than they really are so they can trick young people into meeting them. Of course, most people
in chat rooms are genuine, but it's still a very real danger, so it makes sense to be on your guard.
Don't be scared of using the Internet - just be aware. Here are some handy do's and don'ts.
Do's
Be aware that the people you're talking to might not be who they say they are.
Remember that you're in control. If someone starts talking to you about things like sex or anything else that
makes you feel uncomfortable, all you have to do to end the conversation is log out. Then let an adult know what's happened.
Always use a nickname instead of your real name. For example, instead of "Mark_Smith", choose something unusual,
like "Sk8King_21".
Think twice about going to meet someone you've met online. If you really want to meet a web pal, NEVER go alone.
Always take an adult you trust with you when you meet for the first time. If your online mate is a real mate, he or
she will understand.
Dont's
Don't give out personal details, even if someone tells you theirs. This includes stuff like your last name,
your address, your school, your mobile number, your e-mail address and passwords.
Don't send out a photo of yourself or your friends to people you don't know.
Don't accept e-mails or open files from people you don't really know or trust. They might contain viruses that could
wreck your computer.
Don't panic if you come across an embarrassing website. Just turn off the screen and go and get an adult.
Don't worry - it's not your fault. It's really easy to come across dodgy sites by mistake.
FIND OUT MORE:
www.thinkuknow.co.uk
www.chatdanger.com
www.childnet-int.org
