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Tips for Safe Surfing
Written by: Katie Hovda, RN, BSN, MHA
Surfing the internet on our smart phones and smart watches is undoubtedly fun; there is so much useful information at our fingertips that I can hardly remember life without instant access to everything I ever wanted to know (or shop for!). With such great power, comes great risk. Here are a few tips to stay safe when on the internet:
- NEVER share your password, name, address, the name of your school, or information about your family with ANYONE you meet online.
- Do not engage in conversation with strangers on the internet.
- NEVER agree to meet anyone in person that you have met on the internet.
- If you see something you think your parents won’t like, do not stay on that internet site.
- Do not post pictures of yourself or your family without your parents’ or guardian’s permission.
- Do not download or install anything on your computer or device without your parents’ or guardian’s permission.
- Do not respond to any messages that are mean or make you feel uncomfortable. Likewise, do not use the internet to hurt other people. Cyberbullying is a crime.
- Never leave your smart device (i.e. phone, watch, iPod, etc) unattended.
- Be wary of using social media. Very little of what is posted is a true reflection of reality.
- ALWAYS tell your parents or a trusted adult if you feel uncomfortable about something you have seen, heard, or said online. Trust your gut!
Good Resources for more Internet Safety Tips:
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