Safe Online Communication

To start off, watch this short video on YouTube by using the link below.  v=ZCKW4H3Ap44 v=ZCKW4H3Ap44

Now that I have you’re attention…  There are so many types of communication with today’s technology.  Facebook  Twitter  Skype   Chat rooms  Dating sites  And numerous others!

Who are you really talking to online?  The safest online communication is with people you already know.  Do not talk with people you find/meet on the internet.  It’s hard to say for sure who the face is behind a person on the internet.

Why is it important for safe online communication?  You do not want to talk to strangers because:  They could be harmful  They can track you  They can steal information  People can put false information and pictures on the internet as a disguise.  This could lead to who knows what!

What should I NOT put on the internet?  NEVER put personal information on the internet, especially on social media/public websites.  Address  Phone number  Vacation plans  Location  Age  Gender  Some people may use this information to find you for whatever reason.

How to keep the kids safe!  You can even share this information with the parents.  Limit online usage  Monitor usage; check websites used  Know who the kids are talking to  Assure the kids that they can talk about any problems that may occur while communicating online  Make social media sites private instead of public accessible

Some scary facts!  “One out of every five kids gets sexual solicitations online.” (scholastic.com)  “71% of kids get messages online from someone they don’t know.” (child-safety-for- parents.com)  “Only 15% of parents are ‘in the know’ about their kids’ social networking habits.” (guardchild.com)  “86% of girls claimed to be able to conduct online chats without their parents knowing.” (guardchild.com)

Resources  child-technology/keeping-kids-safe-online  facts.html#.U0IrCP1ZXG4 