Surfin' Safety

Safety is and always should be a major concern to everyone using the web. A little paranoia is healthy when surfin' the web.

Like the world, the web is populated by both good & evil people.

The evil ones thrive on the anonymous nature of the web. Without some intensive snooping, it is nearly impossible to have any idea who you are communicating with at anytime.

For adults this is less of a problem. But for our children, there are some basic guides you should have them follow when

• communicating by e-mail,
• talking in chatrooms,
• or filling in forms.

Surfin' Guidelines

NEVER give any personal information.

Giving someone your e-mail address is alright.
NEVER GIVE your home address, phone number, social security number, license number, age, sex, passwords, or any information that can help you be located or identified.

NEVER agree to meet with an online 'friend'.

For children this is a NEVER BREAK rule!
Notice that 'friend'
without the 'r' of responsibilty,
is 'FIEND',
that is who my be waiting for YOU...

Don't be fooled, Dr. Jykle and Hyde types thrive on the internet.

Know WHY you are filling in a form.

If you are at a business site, giving some information to receive information is fine for adults. Read the small print to ensure the information is used ONLY for the purpose YOU intend.

Children should NEVER FILL IN FORMS without their parents knowledge.

Surfin' Cowhah Bungah!

Don't let my warnings stop you from enjoying the variety and diversity of the web. As with any activity, a reasonable amount of caution and awareness only help ensure the experience is enjoyable.

The web is one of the few remaining places to experience the free and open exchange of ideas; whether verbal, written, or visual.

Grab your board (or browser) and let's go...

'SURF'S UP!'