SAFETY ON THE INTERNET

BY: JALANA VINCENT

WHAT IS ‘INTERNET SAFETY’?

‘Internet Safety’ or ‘Online Safety’ is trying to be safe on the internet. It is the knowledge of maximizing
the user’s personal safety and security risks to private information and property associated with using
the internet, and the self-protection from computer crime in general.

As the number of internet users continues to grow worldwide, internets, governments and
organizations have expressed concerns about the safety of children using the Internet. Safer
Internet Day is celebrated worldwide in February to raise awareness about internet safety.
 DANGERS OF THE INTERNET
The Internet is a vast and powerful tool aiding kids in education, social engagement, and entertainment. The size
of the Internet coupled with the diversity of resources results in a highly profitable tool. However, even as a
simple tool like a hammer can be misused, the Internet can be used inappropriately.
Like any tool, the person using the Internet must be taught how to wield it effectively, or it will end up causing
more harm than good. Understanding the potential for the Internet’s misuse is a great place to start. The following
five potential dangers of the internet are some of the most devastating harms of the Internet. Here are two(2)
examples of ‘Dangers Of The Internet’:
1.)Cyberbullying
Anonymity and the lack of face-to-face interaction afforded by the Internet combine to form a cyberbullying
setting. Caustic, rude, and downright nasty remarks fly unabatedly in the faceless digital world. The anonymity
afforded by the Internet means that insults can be flung without anyone knowing the insulter.
2.) Online Predators

Perhaps the most devastating Internet danger, online predation usually involves an older male grooming a
vulnerable child for months, showering her with praise, gifts, and affirmation. Usually the older male is completely
open about his age, but preys on the insecurities of the girl to convince her that he truly cares for obscenities
which they want to protect their children from.
 INTERNET SAFETY RULES/TIPS

The internet has made many things easier for us, but it has also created a whole new venue for con-men. We
hope to improve your safety while on the internet with this list of rules. Crooks can destroy our computers or
access our personal information unless we learn to protect ourselves.
Tips on internet safety:

1. Make sure your computer has a firewall.

2. Install an anti-virus software program.
3. Install an anti-spyware program.
4. Regularly upgrade the security features of your operating system.
 INTERNET RISKS
Risks to user Safety and Privacy
There are a number of risk involved while using the internet. These can include; abusive behavior (“cyberbullying”),
inappropriate behavioral and grooming. These threats can appear in a variety of different contexts, e.g. text messages, chat
rooms, e-mail, social networking sites and instant messaging.
Risks to Data Security
These include malicious programs such as: (including viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware and adware), hackers, phishing and
identity theft. Once you have completed this part of the course you should be able to identify examples from all of these
categories.
Risks to System Performance and Integrity
These include things which could cause your computer to slow down, crash or even break down. These threats include unwanted
e-mail (often referred to as “spam”), malicious programs (including viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, adware) and hackers.
Steps you can take to minimize Internet Risks
Including withholding personal information, reporting incidents to a responsible adult and making correct use of browser and
social network security settings.
 INTERNET SAFETY FOR PARENTS
Parents need to be cautious and aware of security, and should also monitor their children's internet use to prevent abuse
or identity theft.
1. Early Internet Use
In a survey of 825 adults and children between the ages of seven and 16, found one out of eight parents allowed their
children to use the internet from the age of two. Consequently, only one out of 10 make their children wait until they are
10 or older, as recommended by experts.
2. Unsupervised Use
As a result, many children are using the internet unsupervised at an early age. Studies found that over 71% of parents
do not supervise their children's internet use after the age of 14, yet a shocking 72% of all missing children cases that
begin online involve children who are 15 or older.
3. Hiding Information From Parents
Unfortunately, regardless of parental intentions and involvement, the Kidsafe Foundation reports nearly 32% of
teenagers hide or delete their browsing history from their parents. It is imperative for parents to be diligent. Likewise,
16% of teens have email or social media accounts their parents are unaware of.
 CLOSURE

This assignment has opened my eyes to the many dangers of the internet. While technology has evolved and made many
positive contributions to the 21st century as citizens and more so as young ladies we must be vigilant in how we use the internet.

Thank-You..