Click on the image below to view a video about digital citizenship:
Click on the image below for comics and videos that explain how to use the internet safely and avoid cyber-bullies and predators:
The definition of digital citizenship:
"the ability to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in the digital world"
Ways to be safe while having fun online:
Choose and use passwords wisely – Make certain that your password contains at least 8 characters and includes a variety of numbers, letters, and/or symbols.
Download with care – Download images, applications, and screen savers from trusted sources only. Make certain that you know that the website you are visiting and it is one you can trust.
Do not immediately open e-mail attachments – If you receive an e-mail attachment that you were not expecting (even if it is from someone you know), do not open it—there may be a virus contained within it. Your best bet is to send e-mail back to the sender asking them to explain what the attachment contains. If it is a virus, they may not even know the e-mail was sent. This extra step can really help to protect your system!
Avoid forwarding chain letters, jokes, and other types of SPAM – These letters often contain false information that misleads people. In addition, they send the personal data of yourself and your friends to strangers through malware embedded in the chain-email. By forwarding emails to your friends, you may be creating a list of emails for spammer to use.
Be sure to use and update your anti-virus software – This is your best defense against viruses!
Make regular back-ups of your files – In the case of a virus or computer malfunction, regular back-ups help to get your system back in order quickly.
When you receive a message that makes you feel uncomfortable, do not respond – Immediately shut off your monitor or close your laptop and talk to a parent or trusted adult.
Use your computer in a positive manner that is respectful and courteous to others – Remember, it is important to use your system to do good things—not harm.
Protect your personal data by not giving out your name, address, phone number, etc. – This information should only be given to people that you trust—it’s always a good idea to check with your parents before providing this information.
Help others to recognize the importance of protecting yourself and your computer system – Share these steps with your friends and family!
Some things that you can do while having fun to be safe online:
Adapted from Safe Connects by Lawrence J. Magid. Copyright©2014 Net Literacy.