Internet safety begins with securing your home/business computer

• Keep your virus protection software updated regularly.
• Keep your operation system software updated regularly.
• Install and run spyware-monitoring software.
• Use a firewall program or install a hardware firewall, especially if you have high-speed internet access which maintains continuous internet connection.
• Install or activate a pop-up window blocker.

Make regular back-ups of all important information.

Enjoy the internet safely

• Use a strong password – a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. Example: Prevent-Crime-911
• Change your password frequently, at lease twice a year.
• Use unique passwords.  Do not use the same password on all accounts.
• Do not write down your password, remember it.
• Do not use the links provided in emails to access a webpage. Type the web address for the company directly into the browser.

Be suspicious of any emails with urgent request for personal or financial information

• Do not give out your personal information through emails or online forms unless you confirm that you are dealing with a legitimately secure site.
• A secure web address begins with https:// rather than just http://
• Read website privacy policy prior to submitting information online.
• When submitting information also look for the lock or key icon on the browser's status bar.
• Do not download files from unknown email addresses.
• Do not use the unsubscribe link in spam emails.  This only notifies them that your email address is valid and they do not remove you from their list.

To report an internet crime file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov

Internet Safety for Children 

• Never tell anyone your home address, telephone number or school name without asking a parent, and never share personal information publicly online (like in a chat room or newsgroup/message board post).
• Don't give your password to anyone but your parents-not even your best friend.
• Never say you'll meet someone in person without asking your parents first.
• Always tell a parent, librarian or teacher about any threatening or bad language you see online.
• Don't accept things from strangers (e-mails, files, links or URLs).

If someone says something that makes you feel unsafe or funny, notify your parents, librarian or teacher and leave the chat room or website.