Internet safety.
Dangers.
The Internet is a wonderful tool, both for learning and contact, and it is there
for all age groups. However, as with the real world, the Internet has it's
dangers. These dangers are so much more serious for children, who may unknowingly
give out enough information for them to be in danger from stalkers.
Identity.
Not everyone is who they appear to be. The Internet allows people to use fake
identities and fake information. Anyone can give any name, and even provide a
photo as "proof". As it is easy to get pictures from the Internet, how do you
know that is really them?
Be very careful who you give personal details or photos to, most people really
do not need these things. If they ask for personal information, consider why
they want it.
Email.
Email addresses are often used by Spammers and fraudsters to hook unsuspecting
people. You should not open Emails from people you do not recognise. Email addresses
are easy to fake or spoof, give me a name and I could send you an Email that looks
like it came from them - it's so easy a child could do it.
This is commonly used by fraudsters who send Emails out claiming to be from a bank,
tricking people into giving them enough information to empty their account or use
their credit card details.
Don't give your Email address to anyone you don't trust and don't assume that an
Email must have come from the person named.
Children.
Children should be aware that they should not give out personal information such
as name, address, contact details. Also, they should be aware that people on the
Internet may not be what they seem.
If you need more information about safety on the Internet, visit
Think You Know.
Parental guidance.
Just as children are taught of the dangers and safety in everyday life, such as
crossing roads, so they should be taught about Internet safety.
The Internet holds so much information and fun for the young, but they should not
be left alone to surf whatever happens to be out there. They could follow
inappropriate links, give out personal information, agree to meet people or
even accidentally buy something on-line (a case has been reported).
Just as you would not send a young child to travel on their own, so they should
not travel around the World Wide Web alone.
