INTERNET SAFETY 

 

Matt Crabtree

Moaz Sinan

Samrudh Rajachudamani 

Why Did We Choose this Topic?

 

     Everyday, the students of the International Academy get homework that involves the use of a computer. Although none of the homework the students get involves the dangers of the internet, we as humans get distracted very easily. In this way, most of the students go on other websites for fun after a long day. They all think that they know everything about the the danger of the internet because of the constant reminders from teachers and parents throughout the schooling. But what they do not realize are that even with the smallest mistake on the internet, the consequences can be very great.

     We chose this topic beacuse as IA students, we rely on the internet a lot for research, projects, homework and to have fun.  Therefore, we would expect the internet to be safe at the sites that we use, protecting us from viruses and spyware.  But we know that the world isn't perfect, and that we will end up doing something that isn't considered safe.  To prevent this, we came up with some tips and ways to ensure safety while using the internet.

 

How this affects IA students?

 

At the International Academy, we consider technology a friend, but more so a valuable resource that can be used to research a topic, do a homework assignment, or just surf the web.  The internet is one of the most valuable of all these resources, as it can do all of these things.  But it has its risks.  Viruses from inappropriate websites can cause your computer to crash, and spyware allows hackers and complete strangers to access your private information. 

 

 The Facts: Ways to Stay Safe on the Internet

 

- Use trusted safety software and good filters to keep your computer safe and running normally.

- Talk about online safety with friends and family.  This makes it easier for others to make sure you're staying safe on the internet and vice versa.

- Be smart about who you talk to on the internet and what information you give away.  Keep your friends close and your private information closer.

- Watch what you receive in your email.  Be weary of attachments and junk mail, and think before you open.

- Keep your family computer in a central location that is accessable to everyone.  This allows your parents to know what you are doing, keeping you safe.

- Be smart on the internet outside of your home and school.  Being responsible will pay off in the future, and it WON'T cost you.

- Choose a safe online name for emails and chatrooms.  Make sure that they don't give away information like your name, age, race, hair color, address, or city.

 

The Facts: Statistics and Info to Know

 

- 95% of parents don't understand the lingo that their children use on the internet.

- 89% of sexual solicitations occur in chat rooms or IM's.

- 33% of all children have been contacted by a stranger, with the intent of inappropriate activity.

- 20% of all children have been solicited sexually on the internet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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