ICE
4 Life
On-line
Safety & Awareness
So...
you are on your computer or lap-top using one of the popular
social networks to connect with your friends and 'mates'...
but do you REALLY know who you are talking to on-line?
There
have been so many stories hitting the headlines about young
people who have began talking with someone on-line, arranged
to meet them on their own and then found themselves in awkward,
frightening or sometimes even very dangerous situations.
Remember... Stranger Danger!
It
is imperitive that you are forwarned and forearmed for your
health, safety and emotional well-being about the dangers
of posting and chatting on-line. This page will share some
pointers for your safety and awareness...
The
links below show you how easy it is for people to 'follow
you' and 'lull you into a false sense of security' and before
you know it... it can be dangerous or too late. Be on-line
aware! There are loads of sites promoting on-line safety. |
Safety
Pointers for when on-line...
ONLY post
information that you are comfortable with everyone seeing
and knowing.
Flirting with strangers online could have serious even detrimental
consequences. Some people lie about who they really are.
Remember
that once you post information online, you can't take it back.
Even if you delete the information from a site, older versions
may still exist on other people's computers.
Keep
online friends online, don't meet them in person. If you're
even unsure about an online friend, then don't hesitate to
block them.
Be
wary if a new friend wants to meet you in person. If you DO
decide to meet them, meet ONLY in a public place, during the
day, with friends you trust. And tell a responsible adult
where you're going and an estimated time or arrival and departure.
Although your parent may stop you from going... they only
ever have your best interest at heart... which is more than
can be said for someone who tricks you into meeting them through
pretending to be someone else!
Be careful where you download programs, music, or files from.
Many viruses hide themselves in harmless looking files, but
could end up exploiting your passwords.
Don't post personal information or photos of yourself that
someone can use to track you (eg your car's number plate).
You shouldn't use the Internet to spread gossip, bully, or
threaten others, or carry out illegal activities. Tracking
such activities is relatively easy for the authorities, and
REALLY not worth the effort.
Trust your gut if you have suspicions. If you feel threatened
by someone or uncomfortable because of something online, tell
an adult you trust, and then report it to the police.
Add
ICE4Life to your Favourites |