Stay Safe on the Internet

Print the article "Stay Safe on the Internet" here

What is the internet?

• It is how computers all over the world talk to each other.
• It lets you connect the computer you use to another computer.
• The internet is easy to learn.

The internet can be fun!

• Do you use the internet? You can use it to:
  • Find things to do
  • Plan a trip
  • Write to friends and family
  • Buy things

You have to be careful.

• Some people who use the internet are trying to break the law.
• They might ask you for things that will help them steal from you or hurt you.
• If you use the internet, it’s important to keep yourself safe from these people.

What do they ask for?

• They ask for your personal information.
• They might ask for:
  • Your name, address, or phone number;
  • Your birth date;
  • Your social security number; or
  • Your credit card number or bank information.

What do I do?

• The best things to do are:
  • Just say no
  • Do not give out personal information over the internet

What if I get an email from someone I do not know?

• If you do not know the person or company who sent it, do not open it!
• Some people will pretend to be your bank or credit card company.
  • Do not give them any information.
  • If you are not sure, ask someone.
  • Or, call your bank or credit card company and ask about it.

What if I buy things on the internet?

• If you do, you may need to use a credit card.
• Look for a sign that tells you the website is safe.

Other ways people can steal your personal information.

• They use email to put a virus in your computer.
• The virus sends people your personal information.
• Make sure to:
  • Get a program to protect your computer from a virus; and
  • Write down your passwords, do not save them on your computer.

Same thing for your medical information.

• Someone might ask for your insurance or medical record number.
• They will use the information to buy medicine and charge it to you.
• Do not give anyone that information online.
• If you buy medicine online, make sure it is a safe website.

Can you make friends on the internet?

• You can meet new people on the internet.
• Good places to meet people on the internet are:
  • Websites for self-advocates
  • Websites about things you enjoy, like movies or games

What if someone on the internet asks to meet you?

• Sometimes, people who meet on the internet like to see each other.
• It can be fun to meet someone in person.
• Sometimes people on the internet do not tell the truth. They may not really be your friend.
• You have to be careful and stay safe!

How can you stay safe if an internet friend asks you to meet them?

• Talk to someone about it.
• A friend, family member, or someone who works with you can help you decide if you should go.

How can you be safe if an internet friend asks you to meet them?

• If you do meet someone, take someone with you and meet in a very public place, like a:
• Library
• Place to eat
• You should never go alone to meet someone.

To find out more on internet safety:

• WiredSafety.org
• Get Net Wise: You are One Click Away