Cyber Kids!

Most family homes in Ireland now have access to an internet connection. The internet is a great resource for many fun andinteresting things, from instant messaging to researching a history project for school. However, with so many people having access to the internet is it important that you use it wisely in order to avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations. Here are a few tips to keep yourself safe while you use...

1. Instant Messaging (I.M.)

Instant messaging allows you to have a live conversation with another user. It is like sending a text message to a friend, but faster and it is free of charge. It is important that you only talk to people you know. People aren’t always what they seem; make sure that the people on your contact list are people that you know in the real world.

If people add you to their contact list and you don’t know them, use your blocking function to stop them from seeing you on line and then they won’t be able to contact you.

If you have a profile on IM, don’t put too much personal information like your contact details, addresses or where you go to school. Use a cartoon character or symbol instead of a photo.

2. Social Networking Sites (Bebo, Facebook, MySpace)*

These sites are great for creating your own profile, linking to your friends and sharing photos. However, if you do not use these sites carefully, strangers may be able to find out information about you that you do not want them to know.

Be careful of giving out too much information about yourself e.g. your full address. Remember that the information given out on your profile can be seen by everybody. Once you post information to your profile, people can instantly see it. Making your page private will enable only your friends to see your profile.

Again, always keep in mind that people aren't always as they seem. It is very easy to set up a false profile and pretend to be someone that you are not. Bear this in mind when strangers add you as a friend.

*You must be at least 13 years of age to set up a Bebo page, and 14 years old to set up a MySpace profile.

3. Online Gaming

With newer, advanced gaming technology, many game consoles such as the Nintendo Wii and the PS3 allow the player to access online gaming. Online gaming can be a great way to interact with fellow gamers and make new friends around the world. Many people enjoy the challenge of competing with others.

However, it is important to never give out personal information while gaming online. Other players do not need to know your real name or address when you are playing a game. Be wary of any players who are looking for such information. They may not be who they seem.

In all three cases, it is important to NEVER, EVER meet with someone you get to know through the internet, unless you have a parent or guardian with you. People aren't always who they say they are and you could be putting yourself in serious danger if you do so.

Also, have fun while you use the internet! By following the above steps, we hope to help you have a more safe, yet fun, experience online.

Check out www.webwise.ie for more information on how to stay safe online.

‘Cyber Kids’ was written by a group of nine Transition Year students in Mercy Heights Secondary School, Skibbereen, Co. Cork who are members of the Y.S.I. (Young Social Innovators) group - 'Lost Not Found'. If you want to find out more about YSI, their webpage is www.youngsocialinnovators.ie and their Bebo page is www.bebo.com/LostNotF