Be Cyber Smart

Social Web Tips for Tweens Summary - Adapted from ConnectSafely.org

Be yourself on the Internet Don't let friends or strangers pressure you to create fake usernames on the web or lie about your age.

Be nice online. Treat people the way you’d want to be treated.

Think about what you post. Sharing personal or inappropriate information on the web is never a good idea and you wouldn’t want that information to get to someone who you didn’t want to know.

Passwords are private. Don't share your password even with friends. Pick a password you can remember but no one else can guess. One trick: Create a sentence like "I graduated from King School in 08" for the password "IgfKSi08."

Read between the "lines." It may be fun to check out new people online but before you accept any friend requests or start conversations with people, make sure that you REALLY know who you are talking to.

Avoid in-person meetings unless you’re parents have oked it. Only meet people from online that you already know in person or that your parents know and say it’s ok to meet.

Be smart when using a cell phone. All the same tips apply with phones as with computers. Be careful who you give your number to and do not advertise it anywhere on the internet.

For additional information on Internet Safety check out these websites:
www.connectsafely.org
www.teenangels.org
www.netfamilynews.org
www.safekids.com
www.safeteens.com