How could we live without our smartphones, laptops, and other devices that allow us to go online? That's how most of us keep in touch with friends and family, take pictures, do our homework, do research, find out the latest news, and even shop.
But besides the millions of sites to visit and things to do, going online offers lots of ways to waste time — and even get into trouble. But some people you meet online might try to take advantage of you, steal your personal information, or harass or threaten you (called cyberbullying).
You might know people who got into trouble for something they did online — whether it was sexting, bullying on a website or message app, or getting ripped off by someone they met online.
Because users can remain anonymous, popular websites and messaging apps might attract adults who pretend to be teens or kids. They'll sometimes ask visitors for pictures or information about themselves, their families, or where they live — information that shouldn't be given away.
Usually, people who ask for personal information like home addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses use this information to fill mailboxes and answering machines with ads. In some cases, though, predators use it to begin illegal or indecent relationships or to harm a person or family.
Being Smart Online
First rule: Check your mood! Are you feeling upset or angry? Then it's not the time to be messaging or posting on a social media site. People don't always make good decisions or think straight when they're stressed out or upset. If you have to, call someone or go for a run instead before you start venting online.
Second rule: When you're on a website, try to remain as anonymous as possible. That means keeping all private information private. Private information that you should never allow the public to see includes:
- your full name
- any type of photograph (even of your pet!)
- your current location (some phones have automatic GPS apps built in that may need to be turned off)
- home or school address or the address of any of your family or friends
- phone numbers
- Social Security number
- passwords
- names of family members
- credit card numbers