Teen Scene
Staying Safe Using Online Networking Sites
Survey data indicate that 87% of teens are online regularly.
You may have heard of social networking sites such as MySpace.com
or Facebook.com, where users can create profiles, post photos,
videos and music, send messages and write their own blogs. Such
sites allow teenagers to display their relationships, interact
with each other and show off their creativity through their writing
or design.
Unfortunately, these networking sites aren't just open
to teenagers, and not everyone who logs onto them is looking
to make friends. As adolescents become interested in social networking
on the Web, it is extremely important for them to be aware of
the risks involved and to be smart online.
- As in all online activity, never give out any personal
information to anyone unless you are sure you know who they
are.
- When posting photos or information, be careful that you
don't
give clues as to where you live, go to school or hang out.
- If you publish a blog, make it only viewable by friends
if possible.
- Block users who leave inappropriate comments on your profile
page or blog.
For more on Internet safety, visit www.staysafeonline.info.
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