Kids Internet Safety

Kids Internet Safety:  Playing it Safe While Surfing the Net

The internet can be fun.  (Actually, who are we kidding, it can be downright awesome!)  Tons of great information, games, and chances to chat with and get to know new people all over the world.  But, just like anything else, you have to be careful, and most importantly, be safe.

There are some very important things that you need to keep in mind when you’re on the internet at home, school, the library or anywhere.  Here are a couple:

• First, remember never to give our personal information such as your name, home address, school name, or telephone number in a chat room, on bulletin boards, on blogs, or in email. Also, never send a picture of yourself to someone you chat with on the computer without your parent’s permission.
• Never write, text, talk to, or chat with to someone who has made you feel worried or scared. And be sure to tell your parents if you are feeling this way.
• Do not meet someone or have them visit you without the permission of your parents.
• Tell your parents right away if you read anything on the Internet that makes you feel uncomfortable in any way.
• Remember that people online may not be who they say they are. Someone who says that “she” is a “12-year-old girl” could really be an older man or woman trying to trick you. That is why it is very important to let your parents know who you are talking to or chatting with online.  
• And remember, your parents aren’t trying to spoil your fun when they check up on what you’re doing or who you’re talking to.  They want to keep you safe.

(Adapted from the “Kids Safety” page at FBI.gov)

More on Kids Internet Safety & Security

Kids Rules for Online Safety - http://www.safekids.com/kids-rules-for-online-safety/

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