「划水」Online Safety

Today I thought I'd blog about about a question that has been asked many times -- how do you stay safe online and avoid bad experiences on the Internet? I'm not an expert, but many years as a blogger have taught me a thing or two.

First of all, there's the golden rule of the Internet: If you see or read sometimes that makes you feel uncomfortable, leave the site immediately. Don't post comments or click on anything. Second, protect your privacy. Don't give out your address or phone number. Someone might use the information to steal your identity. Identity theft is a common and serious problem. Third, be polite. Being online is no excuse for being rude, and you don't want to become a target for a troll or cyberbully. A troll is a person who posts comments or questions in order to stir up trouble online. Trolls often use several false names so that they can stay on a site. A cyberbully uses the Internet to be mean to others. Like a troll, a cyberbully will also write something mean but it is usually directed at particular people. He or she may also post embarrassing photos and information about those people. However, the most polite you are, the less likely it is you will be attached.

Have you had any bad experiences online, or do you have some good advice for staying safe? Post your comments below!