Live Life Team
The internet has opened up a whole new world of opportunity – after all we can listen to and download music, watch films and even shop online. It is, however, important to keep yourself safe. Just because you are sitting in a room by yourself, you must remember that you are connecting with thousands, even millions, of people worldwide every time you log on.
So, how can you keep yourself safe online, First and foremost, make sure that you cannot be identified from your screen-name – it should not give away your name, your age, your address or your gender. Do not give out your personal email address to people that you don’t know and never give away any personal information. Don’t send pictures to anyone that you do not know and most importantly of all, you should never arrange to meet someone that you have only ever spoken to online. If you feel pressured by someone you are chatting with on the internet, the easiest way to rectify this is to log off. However, if you are worried by the way someone has been communicating with you, make sure that you tell a trusted adult.
You should also be careful when you are talking to people that you do know online. It is just as easy to be bullied in cyber space as it is anywhere else. It is also just as serious. As always, if you are being bullied, try to pluck up the courage to confide in someone. This is another reason why chat rooms or social networking sites should not be used spread gossip. This can only result in causing hurt to others.
Remember, the internet is there to be enjoyed and explored but just ensure that you keep yourself and others safe.
