#1: If you feel uncomfortable about *anything* online, talk to your parents / carers / teachers

• • It can *never* be your fault regardless of whether you think you have done something foolish.

#2: Never meet anyone in real life that you have only met online

• • If you absolutely *must*, then make sure you discuss it with your parent/carer first.

#3: Make your social networks PRIVATE

• • Don’t let strangers see your personal and private information.  Take the time to lock them out.  Switch off any “Geo-tagging” from your posts also.

#4: Keep STRONG passwords and NEVER share them

• • Apart from with your parent/carer, but not even with your best friend, brother, sister.  

  • Don’t use just one password for all sites [Read more...]

#5: Only open or click on something if you know what it contains

• • This is how a virus can enter your computer system.

#6: Cover your web cam

• • Many virus’ can take control of your web cam and record you when you are not aware.  Simply cover your web cam when not in use.

Phishing, fake websites, virus, malware

• • Phishing: A website or email that pretends to be something it is not in order to trick you into entering secret information like passwords etc.  Always check the website address carefully (eg. hsbc.co.uk is NOT myhsbc.co.uk) and remember that any organisation or company that holds your data will never ask you to type you details into a "special page".  They will ask you to log into your normal account page and there you will find any instructions they have for you.

  • Virus/malware:  You may get infected with malware (malicious software) that may take control of your webcam and record you, listen to you or record your keyboard as your type.  These recordings may be used to blackmail you.  Always keep your webcam covered when not in use, ensure you have an up-to-date virus checker and never open email attachments you don't know who they are from.  Simple!

Places to find help

• Your parents/carer/teacher

• ThinkUKnow.com

• Childline