Internet Safety

What can you do to stay safe online?  Some of these tips may sound basic but they may be the most important:

ü  Don’t do or say anything online you wouldn’t in person. 

ü  Post only things you are okay with people seeing or knowing.

ü  Remember it isn’t just about you.  When you post information or pictures with friends or family members remember, you are also putting them at risk.

ü  Use the privacy options to keep your page as private as possible. 

ü  If you are in an abusive relationship or are leaving one it is best to avoid using technology to have contact with your abusive partner as they may use it against you later. 

ü  Don’t respond to harassing, abusive or inappropriate comments. It may put you in further danger or get you in trouble.

ü  Save or keep a record of all of the communications between you and the person who is abusive.  You may need this paperwork in the future.  Keep it in a safe place. 

ü  Avoid giving out your passwords to anyone (except a parent or guardian).  Choose passwords that aren’t easy to guess and change them often. 

ü  Unfortunately if the abuse doesn’t stop, you may be forced to change your usernames and email addresses. 

ü  You can also report harassing or inappropriate behavior to the site administrators. 

ü  Remember-TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS!  If you feel like something isn’t right or feel threatened, tell someone who can help. 

"Safe Online Relationships." The Safe Space. Break the Cycle. 26 Feb 2008 <http: //www.thesafespace.org/pdf/handout-safe-online-relationships.pdf.>