Internet Safety

I have become aware that more and more of our students are becoming more involved with blogging (online journals/diaries).  Unfortunately many of the students are posting far too much information about themselves.  Here are some helpful guidelines that students should use when evaluating what they have written.

If you’re thinking of creating your own online blog, here are some tips you can follow to ensure your safety.

1. Password-protect your blog. Make sure that nobody knows your password other than your parents.
2. Do not include very personal and detailed information (places you hang out, malls, etc.) in your blog.
3. Do not complete a profile or include name, address, phone number, school, zip code, e-mail address, or screen name in your blog.
4. Do not release any personal information about anyone else you know either.
5. Read your writing and see if you can pick out details that lead to revealing personal info about you. If you come across anything objectionable, change it so it is less identifying.
6. Do not include photos of yourself or others in your blog.
7. Do not leave your blog page open and your computer unattended. Someone could step in and write something as you.
8. Do not spread gossip or slander about your classmates.

Adapted from the ISafe “I-Educator Times” February, 2006 edition.