Internet safety tips for teens

What happens online can have real consequences

Cyberbullying and Sexting: Online harassment and ‘Sexting’ (sending explicit messages, images or videos) is a serious offence and can result in criminal charges.
Sex talk online: Don’t talk about sex online or share images you wouldn’t want the world to see.
Think before you share: It’s difficult to remove information once it’s shared. A smartphone app may advertise that what you send will ‘disappear’ in a few seconds. However, you can still take screen captures of that photo, making it last forever.

What does your online reputation say about you?

Know what comes up if you Google yourself. Your online reputation is public and will follow you for life. You can bet on future employers ‘Googling’ your name before hiring you.

Be socially responsible

Speak up and do the right thing. If you see something you don’t agree with, like cyberbullying, harassment, or threats, tell a trusted adult for advice and/or help.
Treat online life like regular life. Remember your values and beliefs. Don’t say anything online that you wouldn’t say to someone’s face.

Protect your privacy online

Post wisely and keep personal details to a minimum. Use privacy settings on social media sites to limit who can see your personal information.
Turn off location services. Share your location with only those you know and trust.
A stranger is a stranger. Only accept friend requests from people you know. Not everyone is who they say they are online. You wouldn’t let a stranger into your house, so why open the door to them online to be your friend?
What if someone asks for my picture? Only share images you’d be okay with the world seeing. Once something has been shared, you can’t control where it will go next.

Online shopping

Online shopping is convenient and fun, but be careful about providing personal information.
When using online services such as PayPal and eBay:
- Double check the web address to ensure you haven’t been directed to a phishing scam (a way of attempting to get sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy source).
- Check for security features such as a padlock in the web address bar. If there isn’t one, or if it’s there but not locked, this means that the website’s information is not secure.
When filling out a form for a specific service, make sure to do it through that service's website. Do not provide personal information through links or emails.
If you are meeting with someone through a site such as Craigslist to purchase or sell an item, let an adult know so you can discuss safety issues.