Internet Safety for Students

You know when you bump into somebody you haven't seen for awhile? Or perhaps you can relate to when last weekend you ran into an old friend who is somehow related to your cousin's uncle's brother in law from your last marriage?

Well.... maybe not. But you know the point I'm trying to get across here. It's a small small world out there.

Or is it?

While one could argue that it might perhaps be a small small world... when it comes to the online world the story becomes very different. When you log on to the internet you are immediately connected with millions and billions of people around the world. People you don't know, people you never will meet, but somehow can find out about you.... yes you. Where you live, what you do, who your friend are... even... what you ate for dinner. Yes, crazy at it is, it is all possible with the simple small click of a button.

Today, you will be able to delve into some safety tips on how you can peruse the internet without being caught blind sided by a stranger for not adhering to two simple tips.

Keep it smart!

You are young and have the world ahead of you. So don't take advantage of the fact and ruin the beginning of your professional career by posting inappropriate or unprofessional photos or information online. Yes, even on Facebook, myspace, or twitter. These social networking sites are a perfect opportunity for employers to get a sense of who you are, and it definitely is a strong vantage point to whether or not you get your dream job.

Limit your personal information!

"Hey girlfriends! Want to meet at the mall Friday night for some shopping?!?! I heard Victoria's Secret has a great sale on their strawberry daiquiri perfume!!"

Let's use this example as what not to do. Innocent and sweet, right? There are no addresses, phone numbers, maps... so what could be the issue?

Everything. Sorry to disappoint everyone who was planning on sending that mass invitation but this won't stop the neighborhood creep from meeting you there to see whats on sale too. This message basically gave out everything one would need to find you. Friend, stranger, or pool-boy, he's got where your going and it won't be hard to find you.

These two tips are just a starting point for your online life. Keep in mind technology is a tool and can be used or abused. Let's just all stay on the safe side. In the meantime, touch base with the following articles and video to get an inside scoop on more internet safety tips and stories.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=nWq7SXaXj8ghttp://kidshealth.org/teen/safety/safebasics/internet_safety.html

http://www.isafe.org/channels/sub.php?ch=op&sub_id=media_tips