Don't open unsolicited (spam) emails!
The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) urges computer users to not open unsolicited (spam) e-mails, including clicking links contained within those messages. Even if the sender is familiar, the public should exercise due diligence. Computer owners must ensure they have up-to-date firewall and anti-virus software running on their machines to detect and deflect malicious software.The IC3 recommends the public do the following:
- Adjust the privacy settings on social networking sites you frequent to make it more difficult for people you know and do not know to post content to your page. Even a “friend” can unknowingly pass on multimedia that’s actually malicious software.
- Do not agree to download software to view videos. These applications can infect your computer.
- Read e-mails you receive carefully. Fraudulent messages often feature misspellings, poor grammar, and nonstandard English.
- Report e-mails you receive that purport to be from the FBI. Criminals often use the FBI’s name and seal to add legitimacy to their fraudulent schemes. In fact, the FBI does not send unsolicited e-mails to the public. Should you receive unsolicited messages that feature the FBI’s name, seal, or that reference a division or unit within the FBI or an individual employee, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
Friendship in Cyberspace
SOCIAL NETWORKING"Social networking sites have added a new factor to the “friends of friends” equation. By providing information about yourself and using blogs, chat rooms, email, or instant messaging, you can communicate, either within a limited community, or with the world at large. But while the sites can increase your circle of friends, they also can increase your exposure to people who have less-than-friendly intentions." (From ftc.gov Safety Tips for Tweens and Teens read more)
Online Safety on MySpace and other social networking sites safefamilies.org
Social Networking Safety Tips safetyweb.com
Social Networking staysafeonline.org
Networking Safety Tips for Adults social-networking-websites-review.toptenreviews.com
Test Your Knowledge on Social Networking safety girlscouts.org
Safety for Adolescents’ online social networking pta.org
CYBERBULLYING
"Bullies… have been around forever, but technology has given them a whole new platform for their actions. As adults, we're becoming more aware that the "sticks and stones" adage no longer holds true; both real world and online name-calling can have serious emotional consequences for our kids and teens." (from Kidshealth.org, read more)
cyberbully.org
cyberbullying prevention tips (netsmartz.org)
Stopcyberbullying.org
Beware of the Cyber Bully (isafe.org)
A Parent's Guide to Facebook
Parenting Online (WiredKids.org)
Safe Blogging
Parent's Guide to Internet Safety (FBI)
Keeping Children Safe Online (US-CERT)
Internet Safety (Idaho Office of Attorney General)
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