Kids and Teens @ Libraries

Safe use of the Internet

The internet is a great way to keep in touch with friends, find information for homework or interests. It is vital for communication, information and entertainment, but there are some hazards you need to be aware of.

What are the dangers?

The two main dangers are

You can’t see the person you contact online so you have no idea who they are.

Whilst the vast majority of material on the Internet is legal it is easy to stumble across information or images that may be unsuitable.

What can I do to use the Internet safely?

Talk to an adult you trust if you come across information or pictures you don’t like.

Be aware that in Chat rooms as you can’t see the person you contact on-line, you have no idea if they are who they say they are. There is a risk that adults might pose as children or teenagers, strike up a friendship and eventually try to persuade you to meet up with them. Even if an adult is honest about their age, it doesn’t guarantee good intentions. That is why the first rule of chat rooms is never to reveal any personal details that would allow someone to contact you, such as full name, address, telephone number, email address and mobile number. You would never give personal details to a stranger in the street; it should be the same in a chat room.

You should never arrange to meet anyone you have met online without a responsible adult present in a public meeting place where you can all be safe.

It is good to keep your online friends online.

Internet messaging is usually between a network of friends. So if strangers were invited in, it would be easy for them to find out things about you and your friends. The same safety rules apply to all these ways of making contact over the Internet: No personal details, no meeting up with anyone unless accompanied by an adult.

Gaming can involve communication with other gamers so use the same rules. Avoid using your own name when choosing your ‘gaming name’

Back to 12+ Home page