Please read the information below. Print out the assignment sheet. It will be due tommorrow.

SAFETY TIPS FOR TEENS BY TEENS

• Remember - A million times before you've heard that honesty is the best policy. Most people don't believe that, though. So when you're out there in cyberspace, watch yourself. You never know when 5'6", blond and female could actually mean 6'3", hairy and male. Don't believe everything you see online.
• Be leery of those who want to know too much. There's no rule that says you have to tell them where you live, what your last name is, or anything else personal. Your business is your business. Let them stick to theirs. And trust your instincts. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, leave.
  
• We all remember the "buddy system" from kindergarten. Sure, you're no longer in kindergarten, but the system  still works. If you're planning on meeting up with somebody you met online, bring a friend, or even your parents, along with you and encourage your online acquaintance to bring theirs, too. It sounds stupid, but it's definitely the smart idea. At the very least, make sure your real friends know what you're doing.
• Before you take a running leap at the streets and a hard-knock life, let somebody know how you're feeling. Try talking to an understanding relative or friend, or call the National Runaway Switchboard at 1-800-621-4000. They are a better, more trustworthy resource than a stranger in a chat room.
• If you get suspicious e-mails, files, or pictures from someone you don't know and trust, trash them just like any other junk mail. You could have a lot to lose by trusting someone you've never even met. The same goes for clicking links or URLs that look suspicious - just don't do it.
• Avoid chat rooms or discussion areas that look sketchy or provocative, and don't let people online trick you into thinking of them as real-life friends if you've never met them in person. Just the same, don't let people goad you into online fights. If you go looking for trouble on the Internet, you'll find it, and things can get out of control really fast.

YOUR CALL: DID THESE KIDS DO THE RIGHT THING?

Jasmine is a popular student who enjoys many friends at school. Her friends know that Jasmine has diabetes.   Still they can't really understand what it feels like to have this medical condition.

Jasmine finds an online chat room for kids with diabetes.  Someone with the screen name "Nicole" has joined the chat group too.  Nicole and Jasmine really get along.  They share their feelings about having diabetes.

Jasmine and Nicole exchange addresses in order to send birthday cards.  One day, Nicole asks Jasmine to meet.

***

Jason enjoys playing an interactive Web game in which he creates his own character. The game involves players from all over the country.  Sometimes, while palying he chats with other players. usually swapping game strategies.  He frequently runs into one particular player, who he recognizes by his character.  The player asks him what school he attends and what sports teams he plays on. At what point should 'alarm' bells go off in Jason's head?  Why???

A PAL IN CYBERSPACE

Like Jason and Jasmine, you too might find a pal in cyberspace.  Although you have never met this person face to face, you can have very good talks.  You might share your thoughts about school, friends, and family.  You might discuss a problem you have.  Your cyberpal might give you good advice.  Or maybe, he or she is just a good listener.

CYBERPAL OR FACE TO FACE FRIEND?

Think about it. Can you really know if your cyberpal is male or female?  Do you really know how old he or she is?  You can't know for sure with a pal in cyberspace.  That's the difference between a cyberpal and a friend you know face to face. A cyberpal is still a stranger. 

 BE CYBERSMART!

Don't share private identity information with cyberpals.  If a cyberpal ask to meet face to face, get permission from your parent or guardian.  If they say yes, take them along to the meeting!  ASSIGNMENTS:Click on the link below to print out today's assignment. It is due tommorrow.  Part One: PLAY IT SAFE WITH CYBERPALSPart Two: Answer the questions below:1) What must be leary of?2) What is the 'buddy system' and when and why should you use it?3) How should you handle suspicious emails?4) Suppose you are in a chat room and the conversation gets 'naughty'. What should you do?