THE PLYMOUTH COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE OFFERS PRESENTATIONS TO STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS ON CYBER SENSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
The majority of phones and computers are connected to the internet. The internet contains a wealth of information, that when used safely, proves to be a valuable resource for all of us.
People of all ages are using the internet on a daily basis; for e-mail, homework, keeping in touch with family, texting friends, etc. It is a great thing to use, as long as you stay aware, and protect yourself.
Speak with your Parents to establish safety rules.
- Determine which apps are safe to install on your phone or computer.
- Determine which apps you will be able to use, and which sites you’ll be allowed to visit.
- Remember to never install an app on your phone, or download a program to your computer without your parents permission, this includes music, games, pictures and videos.
- Be aware that some sites can remotely change the security settings on your phone and computer, without your knowledge.
- Never fill out a survey or guest book without your parents permission, as some of these surveys have malware attached to them, such as viruses or trojans.
- Viruses and trojans can damage your phone and your computer. These types of malware can access yours and your parents personal information, credit cards, bank accounts and other files that you have stored.
- Tell your parents if something you come across online makes you feel uncomfortable.
- If something like this does happen and your parents are not available, then close the app, or log off the Internet and talk with your parents about it as soon as you can.
Never give out personal information
Such as:
- Your address
- Your telephone number
- The name of your school
- Your parent´s work address
- Credit card numbers
- Passwords
- Pin numbers
If someone asks you for any of these, tell them that you are not allowed to give out that information. If they keep asking… leave the site, or log off the Internet, and immediately tell your parents!
Passwords are intended to protect your phone and your computer files. Don´t give your password to anyone as this would be like giving a stranger the keys to your house.
Always trust your instincts… if you don´t feel comfortable giving out information… then don´t do it!
Things to remember:
- Be cautious when someone offers you something for nothing.
- Be aware of pagejacking to adult only sites. If you find yourself on one, log off immediately and tell your parents.
- That people online, may not be who they say. Because you can’t see or hear a person who is online, it’s easy for them to pretend to be someone else.
- Never-ever, agree to get together with someone you “meet” online.
- Never give out your personal information, including your age.
- Never send pictures of yourself, your friends, your family or any other personal material to a friend you meet online.
- Never give your e-mail address to anyone on the Internet without first asking permission of your parents.