Everyone has used the Internet at least once in their life, whether it is for research for a school report, or just to play games.  One of the main reasons teenagers, and young adults get online is to socialize. You can go to chartrooms, instant message your friends, get on social networking sites , and communicate with the entire whole world. When you go to a chat room do you know these people? Are they really who they say they are? When you are using the Internet it’s important to know how to stay safe.  You cannot trust people online. Most of the time they are not who they say they are, and they are predators. It is important not give out any personal information. Social networking places such as MySpace and Facebook are ideal places where personal information is given out.

Tips for Staying Safe Online  

*Do not put your full name on your page.- People can use sites like peoplefinder.com to find out where you live..

*Never give out your phone number.-This is another way people can find your address online.

*Make sure your aware of the person to contact if you are being bully or harassed on your page.

*Ignore or Block unwanted user.- For example, if someone is harassing, stalking, or bullying you online. Block the person and contact the person you are suppose to contact on the site.

*Do not accept friends on your page that you don’t know personally.- By accepting friends on Myspace you don’t know you can potentially cause problems down the road example obsessive stalker.

* Do not put things on your page that you would not show your parents or your boss.

*Never give your password to anyone.- When you give your password out the person and get a hold of personal  information.