The term 'surfing the internet' can be misleading (especially to parents!), because unlike the sport there is no 'surf board' involved and it's definitely not done in the sea! However the term is more appropriate than one would first think. Just like the sport there are certain 'tactics' and 'skills' one must learn to become good at surfing the internet. Think of the keyboard as your surfboard and the World Wide Web as the sea, once you have done this, all you need to do is follow the simple tips below and you will soon be on your way to becoming a pro-surfer! Not only will you be the best surfer this side of the Atlantic, but you will be the most skilled and the safest boarding dude or dudette riding the information-waves!
1. TO STAY ON YOUR BOARD AND NOT FALL IN THE WATER, KEEP YOUR DETAILS A SECRET LIKE YOU KNOW YOU OUGHTA!
Keep your personal information personal! If you are chatting to people on the internet never tell them your address, your mobile or home telephone number, your e-mail address or even tell them where you go to school. Make sure that you don't give out your real name and, more importantly, your surname. Usernames are fun so feel free to be inventive and passwords are there for your own protection so keep them a secret, even from your best friend!
2. DON’T SURF ONTO THE WRONG TURF!
Stay safe by only surfing areas you know are user friendly. One way to do this is to use the bookmarker on your browser and only go to sites that you and your parents have bookmarked. If you find yourself on a website that makes you feel uncomfortable then leave straight away. The internet should be fun, not upsetting, so if you are ever sent messages that you find offensive or spiteful then leave the website and tell your parents who can then inform your internet service provider, or even the police. If you receive a nasty mail or text message - never reply. This is just letting the bullies know that there is someone at the other end.
3. THERE ARE MANY FISH IN THE SEA, BUT AVOID THE SHARKS TO SURF SAFELY!
People on the internet are not always what they seem. Never ever agree to meet up with anyone you have made friends with online, not even in a public place. Even though you may be truthful with information about yourself, such as your likes and dislikes, not everyone who uses the internet is as honest!
4. DON'T WIPEOUT, KEEP YOUR COMPUTER PROTECTED BECAUSE VIRUSES GO UNDECTECTED!
Never open e-mails or attachments that are sent to you by unknown users, they can often carry viruses that are harmful to your computer so delete them straight away. Always make sure that if you download anything from the internet it is from a trustworthy source and it's always a good idea to ask a parent's permission, especially if you are using their computer!
One more thing...
It's easy to lose track of time when you're surfing the information waves, so don't forget to take regular breaks from the screen. There are loads of other things you can do - check out Let a4M.E Entertain You! and Things to do for some cool ideas!
