As more and more cell phones come equipped with digital cameras and with free wireless access available at almost every street corner cafe, it's easier than ever to record and share what's going on in your life with friends and family. Whether it’s by email, text or a social network, you can share information almost instantly. Keep these simple tips in mind so you can share what matters to you, safely.
- Be proud of what you’re sharing. Remember that what you post on the Web is permanent.When you upload photos, send email, or comment on other people’s pages, once it’s up, you can’t take it back. Even if you delete the content, you have no way of knowing if it has been copied, altered, or forwarded to others.
- Know your connections. As much as possible, only let people you know in real life connect with you online. When people try to add you as a connection, if you don’t really know them, block them so they can’t contact you again. Use your privacy settings to help ensure you’re sharing with the right people.
- Be an upstander not a bystander. If you choose to stand by and watch, laugh or do nothing when you see bullying happen, you become part of the problem. Don’t be a passive bystander. Report inappropriate content or behavior.
- Have a family chat. Everyone benefits when you’re on the same page about online activities Set clear guidelines for when your kids can go online, how long they can stay online, and what activities they can do online.
For general tips on online safety, parents and teens can print out this safety flyer and share with friends and family.