POST+5

POST 5 Social Networking... Who Rules???


 * Social Networking has become very popular among teenagers, children and young adults. Sites such as MYSPACE, FACEBOOK, and FRIENDSTER attract your attention because they offer a free space online to post information about yourself and others. Although you can appreciate these sites, problems have arisen that are related to ONLINE SAFETY. **


 * What types of information would be acceptable to publish on one of these sites? What information would be total inappropriate to put on your site? Have you ever heard of anyone having an ISSUE with something that someone posted about them? Finally... are you aware that people search the internet to see if your name appears, and to check out any information or pictures that are available? Tell me one thing that you personally do to be SAFE ONLINE. **

1) Get parent's permission before signing up for a social networking site. 2) Check the site's TERMS FOR USE. 3) List your correct age when becoming a member of the site. 4) IF you are too young to qualify for membership, this means that you don't belong on the site!!! 5) Do not list your whole name, parents' names, address, telephone number, school, sports teams or anything that might ID. 6) Do not list information about your friends or provide links that will identify them!! 7) Do not post pictures/photos that make you look like someone you aren't! These may attract the wrong type of people! 8) Do not select a screen name that will give others the wrong impression. 9) Watch the types of infromation that you include on your site!! 10) Do not encourgage or stand by while others harass someone online, even if you think that it is a JOKE. Inform your parents or teachers!
 * ~Mrs. G's Response - Here are some of my suggestions for ONLINE SAFETY. Do you follow them?**
 * If any type of communication makes you feel uncomfortable, let someone know IMMEDIATELY...

And finally, as most of you should know... Be aware that those you interact with online may not be who they claim to be! BE SAFE!!!!