How would we be able to live without our computers and smartphones that allow us to go online? It’s the way the most of us stay in contact with family and friends, share photos, get our work done, do study, watch the news and even go shopping.
There are large number of websites to visit and things to do, but at the same time there are lots of ways to get into trouble when you go online. What’s more, just as in the non-cyber world, a few people you meet online may attempt to exploit you, steal your information, and threaten or harass you. That is called cyber-bullying.
You’ve most likely heard some stories about people who had a bad experience for something they did online – things like sending an inappropriate photo by text message, joining in on some website or app, or getting ripped off by somebody they met through a site.
Because users can browse anonymously, in a few of the popular messaging apps and websites there are unsavory adults who are mostly looking for students or kids. Some of the time they request visitors for images or personal information about themselves and their families, or for address information that should not be shared with anyone.
Usually the people who demand personal data like home addresses, email addresses and phone numbers intend to use this information to fill the user’s mailbox and answering machine with advertisements. At times predators may use this information to start illicit relationships or to harm a child or family.
Online safety rules
First rule: Check your mood first! Are you feeling angry or upset? Then this is not an ideal time to send a message or post your status on a social media website. People don’t generally make good decisions or think right when they’re worried or irritated. On the off chance that you need to get online when you’re feeling this way, call somebody or hold off before you start online browsing.
Second rule: when you browse a website attempt to stay as anonymous as possible. That implies keeping all personal information safe. Here are some examples of personal information that you ought to never allow others to see:
- Your full name
- Your present address
- Your photos
- Home or school address or the location of any of your family or friends
- Credit card numbers
- Passwords
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
Most trustworthy company’s website won’t request this type of information. So in the event that others do, it’s a sign that they might be planning something dangerous. Check with an expert in the event that you are not sure, particularly when signing up for a website or shopping online.
Always think carefully before you start to creating an email address or user name. Web experts suggest that you use a combination of letters, numbers and special letters and that you never identify your gender, whether male or female.