Smarthandbooks

Privacy is your stuff!
Keep your private stuff private. Don't give out any information that might identify you, like telephone numbers, home address, school name, parents' office address, even the name of your local sporting club.

Be wary of attachments!
Only open or run email attachments if you know where they come from and what they are. Never open attachments on spam mail, or mail that seems to come from you but that you don't remember sending.

Don't leave your computer connected to the internet when it is not in use.
When leaving your computer unattended, you should either shut it down or physically disconnect it from the internet connection. This lessens the chance that someone will be able to access your computer.

Protect your computer!
Never accept files or downloads from people you don't know or from people you do know, if you weren't expecting them. This includes URLs.

Think about your log-in!
Don't use your real name as your login. Think carefully aboutthe impression you want to give when you choose a login. Make it non-identifiable and non-gender-specific (and keep it clean).

Not everyone you meet online is who they say they are.
Be careful. It's not a good idea to meet face to face but if you do, always make sure you tell someone you trust about your new online friend, and ensure they come with you if you are planning a meeting. Always arrange to meet in the daytime in a public place. Remember - not everyone is who they say they are.