INTERNET SAFETY TIPS

THE OVERVIEW

Internet Safety Tips: The New Jersey State Police High Technology Crimes and investigation Support Unit recommends the following Internet Safety Tips:

Become familiar with the people and web sites your children are interacting with on the internet, just as you would get to know all of their other friends.

Choose a family oriented Internet Service Provider or Online Service and use Parental Controls or software to regulate the type of information and material your children can access on the Internet. This is among one of the most important internet safety tips. Most of the Parental Controls and software allow adults to restrict access to age appropriate levels. In the event the children do receive objectionable material, teach them to avoid responding to messages that are suggestive, obscene, threatening or makes them feel uncomfortable. Make sure they are comfortable in making you aware of these types of messages. Immediately notify your Internet Service Provider of the receipt of such material.

Try to select non-descriptive Account Names and Screen Names for your children. Their online names should not be too specific or identify or describe them in detail.

Never give out your personal information, your real name, address, or phone number, or any personal information about your family or friends without their permission.

Be careful in chat rooms. Don't get involved in fights or use obscene language. You could be reported and have your internet service suspended or cancelled.

Be careful in joining mailing lists, some may make your personal information public. Don't provide an address or phone number. The information for which you are signing up is sent to the e-mail address you provide, so they don't need your address or phone number.

Beware of offers for free items, get rich quick, or weight loss offers. They may be a scam.

Beware of e-mail from people you don't know or e-mail you weren't expecting. It may contain a virus designed to damage your computer or send your account name and password back to the sender.  

Never send your picture to someone you don't know or trust. Remember, the internet allows people to become anyone they want to be, and they may be someone you don't really want to know.

*Article provided by the New Jersey State Police Department. Click on the link or banner to be connected to the official website of New Jersey State Police Department.