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Protecting Australian Families Online

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Safety tips for adults

Information sheet

Adults should be careful when on the internet. By making yourself aware of a few ‘tricks and traps’, you will be able to make the experience an enjoyable one.

It is never too late to start learning about the internet or computers in general. Find a course, ask friends or family for help, or try to find the time to practice for yourself. Public libraries are good places to get started without having to buy a computer.

Tricks and traps

  • Investigate your hobbies and other interests on the internet. You will find people from around the world with similar interests to you.
  • On occasions you will stumble across an internet site that you morally disagree with. If you believe it might break the law, contact NetAlert and we will refer the case to the relevant authorities.
  • Be careful not to inadvertently sign up for something that you do not wish to receive.
  • Be cautious in giving out your email address. It is easy to end up on a junk email list.
  • Talk to your internet service provider (ISP) about what services they can provide. Internet filters can be used to help you only view the type of content that you wish to see.
  • Credit card usage over the internet is becoming more secure day-by-day. When using your card on a website, however, make sure that the site is trustworthy and secure. If in doubt, ask the administrator of the site which e-trust programs they belongs to or what security measures they have in place. Do not send credit card information via email, as this method of communication is usually not secure.
  • All things are not free on the internet. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Stay enthusiastic and remember to practice your internet skills whenever you get a chance.

About NetAlert

NetAlert is the Australian Government’s online safety program, set up to protect Australian families online. NetAlert is part of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). It offers independent, sensible, helpful and reliable advice and information about potential problems, dangers and threats on the internet and ways to minimise or avoid these problems.

Tel: 1800 880 176
Email: netalert@acma.gov.au
Web: www.netalert.gov.au

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