KASIE’S KORNER, Internet Safety

The Internet is an exciting and interesting place for kids to explore. Kids can uncover information about any area of interest, from aardvarks to zebras. With just a click of the mouse, the Internet makes it possible to resolve homework issues with a classmate, discover the latest musical artist, or chat with a friend through email or instant messaging. Yet, with all these opportunities, smart Internet users are also aware of the safety concerns. Just as your parents would never allow you to wander around a strange neighborhood unsupervised, it is unwise to wander around the Internet without some sort of parental rules and supervision. Here are some simple rules and regulations to stay safe on the Internet.

1. NEVER reveal any personal information. Your address, reveal any personal information. Your address, telephone number, your parents’ names, the city you live
in, and the school you attend are personal. You would never tell that information to a stranger and people you meet online are strangers to you.

2. Don’t send a picture of yourself across the Web without permission from your mom or dad.

3. Do not give out your Internet password to anyone (even your best friend). You might read an email that will try to persuade you to reveal your password. Don’t let an email fool you. People are not always who they say they are. The only people that really need your password are your parents and they need it to keep you safe.

4. If you receive any messages that ask too many questions, make you uncomfortable or scared, or are too full of compliments, tell your mom or dad. They will be proud of you for letting them know that a stranger is trying to be too friendly, mean without a reason or acting in a way that is not appropriate. It is not your fault.

5. Sometimes while searching for information on one subject, you find information that is uncomfortable subject, you fi nd information that is uncomfortable or upsetting. If that happens to you log off, press the backward arrow key, or tell your mom or dad. Then your parents will help you understand how best to avoid this from happening to you again.

The Internet is a wonderful tool. It is a fun way to learn new things, and explore new ideas. However, the Internet can also be a dangerous place, so follow these guidelines and stay safe.