This thread made me think of some info I've collected over time on the net. I hope this isn't wrenching the thread where you didn't want it to go, or in any way patronizing/preachy. I honestly don't mean it that way. Just friendly-like sharing.

Personal Internet Safety
Here are some personal tips for your safety that you can start using immediately.

Don't be a target for abuse. Be aware that while not everyone out there is a bully or a predator, you need to be able to spot them.


Tips For Your Safetywww. ou.edu/oupd/kidsafe/websafe .htm


1. Not everyone is what they seem. Use caution giving out your name, address, or phone # to someone on the net.

Suggested by a friend of mine:

a) People set up a secondary e-mail address through hotmail or any of the other free sites
People set up a secondary chat through yahoo... etc

This is a good way to get to know people... since it is not your main e-mail or chat...it can be deleted if there is harassment.

b) Spend real time chatting before giving out your number. If you have two phones... figure out which one can be disconnected more easily (less people know it) and is unlisted.

c) Women should contact men first if they use the phone. Learn how to use ID blocking.
2. Be careful about agreeing to meet someone. Can you verify who they are and where they're from or where they work? Do you know people who know them who can vouch for them? Also listen for inconsistencies in their stories and "google" them if you can.

3. If you're going to meet in person, make the meeting on your terms. Meet in a public place with plenty of lighting, use your own transportation, and consider making it a double date. Park out of site from the meeting place.


Keep well informed and a step ahead with these links:

Loads of tips and advice for parents, students, school projects, legal advice, etc:
www. bullying. co.uk/

Here's some more info recommended by Bullying Online:

"If you come across anything seriously inappropriate online contact Wired Safety at www. wiredsafety .org , or the Internet Watch Foundation at www. iwf.org .uk . These organisations are not concerned with material which you may not like, they are there to combat serious issues involving pedophiles. You should also report concerns about anyone your child is contacting on the internet to the police." (emphasis mine)


Where am I?

Know what identity theft is, how it's done, how to prevent it, and what to do if you're already the target of it:

www. usdoj.gov/criminal/fraud/idtheft .html