Online Safety 101

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Staying safe online means staying safe in the real world, especially as you start using the internet for lots of things like school, socializing, and entertainment. Here are some easy tips to help you protect your privacy and stay safe while having fun online!

1. Protect Your Personal Information

Never share personal details like your full name, home address, phone number, or where you go to school online. This includes your username – it’s a good idea to use a nickname instead of your real name. If you need to sign up for something on a website, always ask a parent or guardian for permission before entering any information. If you’re stuck on picking a username, check out this random username generating tool from Last Pass for some inspiration!

2. Keep Your Passwords Safe

Your passwords are like the keys to your online world. Use strong, unique passwords for every account and keep them private. If you have trouble coming up with strong passwords, you can use this random password generator from Privacy Canada. Remember, don’t share your passwords with anyone, and avoid using easily guessable ones like your birthday or “password123.”

3. Be Careful What You Share and Send

Never send pictures to strangers, as they can be used to find out more information about you than you may realize. Even the background of a photo could reveal your location. Always think twice before posting photos online. If you feel uncomfortable about sharing something, it’s always better to keep it private.

4. Stay Cautious of Free Wi-Fi and Downloads

Public Wi-Fi might be convenient, but it’s not always safe. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (like your bank) over free Wi-Fi. If you need to, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for extra protection. When downloading apps or files, make sure they come from trusted sources. Research any free software or services to make sure they’re reputable and safe.

5. Use Privacy Settings on Social Media

When using social media, be sure to set your accounts to private so that only people you know can see your posts and information. Don’t accept friend requests or follow people you don’t know. Be mindful of what you share, and never post things that you wouldn’t want anyone to see. Review your privacy settings regularly to make sure they match what you’re comfortable with.

6. Report Suspicious Messages or Behavior

If you receive a mean or strange message, it’s important to tell an adult you trust. Don’t respond to harmful messages or comments. You can also block or report the person who sent it. If someone is bullying you online, let a parent or guardian know so they can help you handle the situation. Always report anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.

7. Be Aware of Scams and Phishing Attempts

Scams are common online, from fake product ads on social media to phishing emails pretending to be from companies asking for personal information. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check with an adult before clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown emails. Legitimate companies will never randomly ask you for your personal info.

8. Stay Safe While Gaming Online

Online gaming can be a lot of fun, but be cautious when talking to strangers in games. Never share personal details like your real name, where you live, or where you go to school. If someone asks you for this info or makes you uncomfortable, report them and block them. Also, be careful when sharing game screenshots—what you think is harmless could give away your location or other details.

9. Keep Your Devices Protected

It’s important to keep your devices, like your phone or computer, secure. Use a password, PIN, or fingerprint to lock your device. Make sure you install updates regularly, as they often include important security fixes. Antivirus software can also help keep your device safe from harmful viruses or malware.

10. Know How to Report Suspicious Websites or Apps

If you come across a website or app that seems suspicious or unsafe, let a trusted adult know. You can also report it to the app store or the website host to warn others. Always do your research before downloading or visiting new sites.

11. Be Kind Online

It’s important to treat others with respect when you’re online. Just like in real life, being kind and helpful to others goes a long way. If you see someone being bullied or mistreated, tell an adult so they can step in and help.

Test your Online Safety Knowledge

Now that you know how to stay safe online, try taking these quizzes to see how well you’re doing:

Safe Kids Quiz

TPL Kids – Internet Safety Quiz

Stay smart and stay safe online! By following these tips and staying aware of the risks, you can enjoy the benefits of the internet while keeping yourself safe and secure online. Always remember, if you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask a parent, guardian, or trusted adult for help!