Using the internet

There are lots of sites around that allow you to talk to other people on the web. Chat rooms give you the chance to have a conversation with other people and get instant replies. Online message boards and forums let you post questions or comments and ask other users to give their opinion in their own time.

It can be a great way to chat to other people who share your interests, but you should always be careful not to pass on any of your personal details. You should always keep in mind that internet users can pretend to be anyone they like. They can lie about their age, their interests and whether they’re male or female. No matter how long you’ve been chatting, remember that they’re still strangers; you don’t really know them at all.

Social networking sites

Some of you may have your own Bebo account or Facebook profile that lets you chat with friends or communicate with other users who share your interests. These ‘social networks’ let you create your own blog, upload photos and videos for others to see and add people to an online friends list.

Social networks are a great way of keeping in touch but you should think carefully before adding someone to your list of online friends or posting a blog entry that could get you into trouble at school, college or work. Remember:

  • Your page is still a public place, so putting anything on your page that you wouldn’t want your parents, teacher or boss to see is not a good idea.
  • You can never be sure that other users are being truthful about their online identities, so be careful about what information you give out.
  • To think about whether you know someone well enough before accepting someone into your group of linked friends.
  • To make sure you know who to contact to report abuse or bullying on your page and how your complaint will be dealt with.

If you are looking for more information about staying in control of your page and how to get the most out of social networking sites. For more information visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk which has all the advice you need. Or please contact a Personal Adviser on 01384 811400 for further advice or support.