Avoiding Sexual Assault – Tips for Internet Surfing

Like most teens, you probably spend a lot of time online. The Internet is a great place to do homework, meet friends and download your favourite music, but along with all of that good stuff, there also comes the bad stuff. Some people on the Internet may try to take advantage of teens and kids. They may pretend to be someone else in order to hurt you.   

Police Advice

Don’ts :

• Do not disclose personal information and photos, etc.;
• Do not respond to indecent chats;
• Do not meet Net-Friends alone;
• Do not browse pornographic websites; and
• Do not make your personal blog open to public.

Dos :

• Ask your family members or friends to accompany you when you’ve decided to meet Net-Friends and the meeting should be in public place;
• Block messages from strangers;
• Remember not to accept inappropriate requests in order to avoid unbearable       consequences; and
• Set up Internet privacy control.    

The Internet has become a significant part of our lives, as well as our children’s. It can be a fun and exciting place to learn many new things. However, there are many dangers to children on the Internet as well. Parents can best protect their children by being actively involved in their children's Internet exploration and setting boundaries for their children’s Internet use.

Parents / Guardians Should:

• Use security software to block pornographic websites;
• Check browsing history regularly;
• Reach an agreement with your children on online timetable;
• Develop common interests other than surfing the net with your children;
• Remind your children that it's dangerous to make friends via the Internet;
• Remind your children to meet new friends in public areas instead of private areas;
• Remind your children not to disclose personal information; 
• Remind your children not to make their personal blogs open to public; and
• Remind your children to leave immediately if they feel threatened.