Lesson 15 — Activity 2: Internet Safety




You have learned that the Internet is used a great deal by many people for many different purposes. Although it has many advantages, it also has disadvantages. For example, what kind of information should you or anyone be advertising on the Internet?

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One thing to be aware of is that websites on the Internet, like all forms of communication, have different purposes. When you are using the Internet, you should be aware of the purposes that different sites cater to. To maintain your privacy and safety, here are some questions you need to ask yourself:

  • What kind of content is on the website? Some websites provide news; others provide facts and information; some provide entertainment. One thing to remember is that many websites are dependent on you to support the site financially or to respond to the advertisements on the site.
  • What kind of information does the website require from us? This is something you need to be aware of. Some sites will ask for personal information and you need to be cautious about them. For example, a company may require your name, address, telephone number, bank or credit card information, and Social Insurance Number. Before giving out this information, you need to know where the information might possibly go. Keep in mind that once information appears on the Internet, you no longer have control of it.
  • What does the website do to make you feel like you are part of it? Some websites have you register your name and e-mail information onto a personalized homepage. Others ask you to enter contests, complete surveys, or answer opinion polls. Some allow you to chat or share your opinions in discussions. Keep in mind that you cannot be sure that the information will be secure. Finally, you need to be aware that the information other people post will not necessarily be truthful!

Although the Internet is a great source for research projects and other information, there are also dangers involved with surfing the Web.

How to Stay Safe on the Internet

  • Never give out personal information, such as your name, home address, phone number, the name of your school, pictures, credit card numbers, etc. unless you are certain the website is safe.
  • Never meet in person with someone you met online.
  • Never give out your password to anyone.
  • Never open links or files from people you do not know.
  • Never open, forward, or respond to e-mails with pornographic or other inappropriate material.
  • Never respond to advertisements — this confirms that you have a working e-mail account, and you will only receive more junk e-mail.
  • Chat Rooms — chat rooms can be particularly dangerous. Even when chat rooms are specifically for teens, participants are not necessarily all teens. Adult predators who have made up identities to hide their real ages may lurk or hide in chat rooms. Always follow the general Internet safety guidelines in any chat room.

If you keep these points in mind, you are more likely to protect your personal information and keep yourself safe.


Digging Deeper!

Click on the Play button below to watch a video that will give you tips on safe Web surfing!