Ten Rules of Safety For Teens While Using the Internet

ByMarley Gordon

Rule 1

• Don’t open e-mail attachments or instant-message attachments unless you are completely sure they do not contain viruses.

Rule 2

• Don’t click on links inside e-mails or instant messages.

Rule 3

• Use a screen name (a fake name) in chat rooms.

Rule 4

• Never agree to meet a fellow chatter in real life.

Rule 5

• Don’t click on Internet pop-up ads because they might install spy ware on your computer.

Rule 6

• Don’t use passwords that people can guess (like your pet’s name or the name of your favorite sports team).

Rule 7

• Never give out personal information about yourself, your family, or your friends (such as your last name, address, phone numbers, the town or city you live in, the name of your school, photos of yourself or your family, PIN numbers for your bank, social-security numbers, etc.).

Rule 8

• Don’t believe everything you read or see on the Internet because some of the information on the Internet is fake.

Rule 9

• Don’t download pirated songs or movies and don’t install pirated software or video games you haven’t paid for, because you can get in trouble with the police.

Rule 10

• Children should immediately tell a parent or teacher if he/she is threatened by a cyber-bully.

References• http://www.securitysoft.com/family_internet_safety_tips.asp?pageid=83