Teens

FOR TEENS

The Internet is a cool place to hang out, learn, and talk to friends. However, the Internet is not a place without risks—you need to be aware of these risks so that you can avoid unintentional trouble.

Protect your information, avoid on-line predators, and surf responsibly. These activities and resources are designed for you—take a look, get the "411", and then pass it along to your friends. We can all enjoy the Internet...safely.

Activities

X-Block
An online place for students to hang out, learn about cyber safety, and share your online experiences with others. Designed just for you!

Resources

Real-life stories by teens who have been victims of Internet exploitation. Also includes current tips and news on cyber-related concerns such as cyber-bullying and other online risks.

OnGuard Online Games
Feeling up for a challenge? Then test your cyber smarts with one—or all—of these interactive quizzes on everything from spam and spyware to phishing and file-sharing.

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)

stopbullying.gov
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)