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Internet Safety

Tips for You

Be Safe-It's Easy

  • No way should you ever meet someone you talk to on the internet!
  • Do not send pictures of yourself on the Internet!
  • Avoid giving out your name, address, or phone number, ever!
  • Beware of downloading pictures from an unknown source!
  • You should not respond to messages that are suggesting or harassing - tell a parent!

Chatroom Safety

  • "asl" = age, sex, and location. Do not give out this information.
  • Remember that you never know who you are really talking to.
  • Avoid using nicknames that may be suggestive.

E-Mail Safety

  • Do not use your real name when choosing an e-mail address or profile.

Remember

  • The only way to stay out of harms way is to know the dangers of the Internet and follow the simple rules to stay safe.
  • By avoiding the dangers you can use all the benefits that the Internet provides.
  • You can never totally eliminate the risks.
  • If anything you see on the internet makes you feel uncomfortable, immediately talk to a parent or adult.

Tips for Parents

Minimize Child Victimization

  • Communicate with your children.
  • Spend time with your children.
  • Place computers in a common room.
  • Use parental controls offered by your Internet Service Provider
  • Maintain access to your child's on-line account and check their e-mail randomly.

Who to Call?

For further information on child safety, please contact:

  • Your Local law enforcement agency
  • Children's Assessment Center - 616-771-6400
  • Cyber Tipline, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children - 1-800-843-5678
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation, Office of Crimes Against Children - 202-324-3666

About Internet Safety

The internet is an exciting place for children and teens to learn, play, meet new people, and explore the world. Unfortunately, not all experiences are positive ones. According to serveral studies and reports:

  • 1 in 5 U.S. teenagers received an unwanted sexual solicitation via the web.
    Crimes Against Children Research Center
  • 1 in 33 youth received an aggressive sexual solicitation, a solicitor who asked to meet them somewhere; called them on the telephone; or sent them regular mail, money, or gifts.
    Youth Internet Safety Survey
  • 77% of the targets for online predators were age 14 or older. Another 22% were users age 10 to 13.
    Crimes Against Children Research Center
  • 75% of children are willing to share personal information online about themselves and their family in exchange for goods and services.
    eMarketer

However, if children and parents take the necessary precautions to avoid these situations, then they can partake in the benefits the Internet has to offer. The web offers many great sites to visit and the "off-line" world presents far greater risks then the "on-line" world. But, remember, no one can toally eliminate the dangers on the Internet.