Cyber Bullying

Cyber Bullying is a growing issue and we would suggest a visit to the following web pages: 
Bullying Online web site for information and support and a new site www.digizen.org with a page on Cyber Bullying including video.

Consider the following:

Always:

• Keep your password safe and don't tell anyone else
  
• be careful in chat rooms. Just because it says that it's only for young people, there's no way to tell if only young people are using it. It might be someone trying to trick you
  
• use a nickname instead of your real name in chat rooms, or when chatting with anyone on the Internet
  
• if someone says something that makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, then leave the chat room. Make sure you tell someone, like your Mum or Dad, carer, teacher, youth worker or friend
  
• Don't give out your e-mail address. Keep it private. If you want to give out an e-mail address choose a disposable address e.g. a second Hotmail/Yahoo address
  
• Before you leave any computer remember to log out of all the sites you have logged on to. This way nobody can pretend to be you, or use services that only you're entitled to use.               

Other Hints and Tips

• If you are chatting to people on the internet, then don't tell anyone your personal details, especially your address, telephone number or school.
  
• Don't ever send anyone your picture, any of your bank details, or credit card details without first checking with a responsible adult.
  
• Don't sign up for a get rich quick scheme. If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is. If not then it may end up costing you money.
  
• Don't arrange to meet anyone unless your parent or carer (or a responsible friend) goes with you and you meet in a very public place with lots of people around.
  
• Don't open e-mail attachments. Attachments can contain viruses or other programmes that can destroy all the information and software on your computer.