INTERNET SAFETY TIPS
The Internet is a world-wide electronic computer network with no single governing body controlling users or content. Not all sources on the Internet provide accurate, complete or current information. Some Internet web sites may provide information that users find offensive, objectionable or inappropriate. It is the responsibility of the individual user to make judgments as to the accuracy and suitability of information obtained via the Internet.
To stay physically and financially safe while using the Internet a few precautions are in order.
- Be cautious about giving out personal information.
- A parent should provide close supervision for a child while the child is online. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children's use of the Internet through the library's connection.
- Read the fine print before agreeing to anything.
- If something on a particular website makes you uncomfortable, then leave that site.
The following resources may be helpful in addressing Internet safety
concerns:
Child Safety on the Information Highway - A publication of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
http://www.safekids.com/child_safety.htm
Lawrence J. Magid's article addresses the issues and risks inherent in children's use of the Internet. One of the final sections includes "My Rules for Internet Safety" which provide a series of pledges for children to make with regards to their use of the Internet.
Kidz Privacy - Federal Trade Commission
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/kidzprivacy/index.html
Explains the provisions of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act and the FTC Rule that implements the ACT. Separate sections address the issues involved in protecting the privacy of children on the Internet from the perspective of kids, parents, teachers, media and businesses.
Librarian's Guide to Cyberspace for Parents & Kids from the American Library Association
http://www.ala.org/parentspage/greatsites/guide.html
Includes safety tips, definitions of Internet terms, and links to over 700 Internet sites selected by librarians who work with children.
United States Department Of Justice - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section
http://www.usdoj.gov/criminal/cybercrime/links1.htm
Offers links to sites covering Internet safety, security and responsibility issues. These sites often include teaching tools and activities for children.
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