Internet Safety
Keeping yourself safe in the virtual world also keeps yourself more safe in the real world. If hackers gain access to your computer or web accounts, not only will they gain access to the manipulation of any information on the site (like facebook, myspace, blogs, etc.) but they will gain access to the personal information you provided once you signed up for the website, such as email addresses and other personal information. When someone knows your personal information, they can make accounts in your name, eventually leading up to things like identity theft and credit card fraud. There are serious consequences that can result from any lack of concern when you create a new internet account of some type. To keep yourself safer online, follow these simple rules:
1. Make your passwords <a href=”http://gmailblog.blogspot.com/2009/10/choosing-smart-password.html”>hard to guess</a>, and never use the same password more than once.
2. Never reveal your passwords or personal information on any social networking site or to anybody who emails you asking for them.
3. Keep your software, web-browser, and operating system up to date by downloading all updates whenever they become available.
4. Talk to your parents and set up guidelines for your internet usage. If you ever feel worried, nervous, or uncomfortable about something someone is asking you or something you may have done online, talk to your parents.
