Internet Safety Tips for Teens

Discuss these ideas with your friends. There may even by more tips you can come up with!

• Always be alert when surfing the Internet.
• If something appears on your screen that disturbs you, tell you parents or teacher. Or if you feel more comfortable phone the NetAlert helpline on free call 1800 880 176.
• Remember you will not get into trouble by letting people know what you have stumbled across.
• If you hear or see your friends getting into ‘unsafe zones’ remind them of the potential dangers and how to do the right thing.
• Keep all personal information to yourself (including photos, your name, the name of your family members including mum and dad, your phone number, credit card details etc).
• Chat rooms are great ways to talk to people but beware that some people in them are not who they say they are. If someone or something disturbs you in a chat room, leave and find one more friendly.
• Remember not everything you read on the Internet is true. Be smart and make decisions for yourself on what you think is right and wrong. Get another opinion if needed.
• Be careful downloading free files and games. Sometimes people can trick you into clicking on a link that sends you to an ‘unsafe zone’ or makes your computer download a virus or spyware.
• Only give your mobile phone number to your family and friends. If you start getting upsetting or annoying text messages, tell a teacher or parent.
• Always seek help from adults or friends. Mum and Dad might not know as much about the Internet as you, but they are always willing to help.