Now that school is back in session, computer and electronic use and Internet safety are important topics to discuss at home in order to set expectations for the academic year. The Westerville Division of Police has published a comprehensive list of tips and recommendations for safe Internet use online at www.westerville.org/internetsafety.
Law enforcement professionals prepare checklists such as these for parents and guardians to start the conversation with the Internet users at home.
- Stay cautious, careful and concerned. Have a discussion with your children so that they are aware and understand criminals prowl the Internet looking for opportunities.
- Never reveal any personally-identifiable information – such as your address, phone number or financial information – online. Tell your family to treat Internet strangers as they would real strangers.
- Never assume you’re completely anonymous online. Even if you don’t put personal information online, there are still ways people can still figure out who you are and where you live.
- Anything you post to social media can and will live on. Remind young people that college recruiters and future employers now perform routine and thorough social media background checks on candidates.
- Protect your passwords. Never share them or write them down in an easily accessible place. Also, change your passwords often, and use a mix of letters and numbers to make them stronger.
- Remember that apps, games and Internet terms/slang change often. The more you know about what your kids are reading and seeing, the better equipped you are to have a conversation about safety.
Visit the website listed above for a full list of safety tips and expert advice about safe Internet use. If you suspect someone you know has been a victim of Internet crime, please call the non-emergency phone line for the Westerville Division of Police at 614-882-7444.
