Get Internet Street-Smarts!

Hi, kids!

Here at Kaboose we work hard to make sure you have a good time in a safe place. But not every website is like Kaboose, Funschool, Zeeks and Kids Domain.

Think of the Internet as being like a big city. There are great places to play, learn, shop and more. But there are also bad strangers and neighborhoods you wouldn't want to visit.

So what you need are Internet street-smarts. How do you get them? By memorizing and following these rules:

1. Never give out personal information on the Internet. "Personal information" includes your real name, address, phone number, the name of your school, your parents' work address or work phone numbers. "What if I want to enter a contest, or become a member on a site?" Good question. But can you really tell if a contest is real or a fake? And anyway, most contest rules say you have to be older than 18 to enter. So if you see a website that's asking for this information, show it to your parents before you do anything.

2. Never send anyone your picture without checking with your parents. It may not be safe to let someone online know what you look like. Talk to your parents.

3. Apart from your parents, never tell anyone your Internet password. Even your best friend could get you into trouble!

4. NEVER agree to meet someone in person whom you've only "met" online. Would you get into a car with a stranger? Of course not! People you "meet" online may be very different in real life. Also, run, not walk away from anyone who suggests you meet "in secret." And tell your parents immediately.

5. Tell your parents - and show them if possible - if you see something that makes you uncomfortable. They can take action - like contacting your sysop or service provider. Don't try to respond to rude messages yourself: It may only make the problem worse.

6. Agree on a set of rules with your parents and stick to them. Decide what time of day you'll go online, how long you'll stay there and which are the safe places you'll visit. If you want to check out something new, talk to your parents first.

7. Don't download anything unless you've checked with your parents first. "Downloads" are files which can come from a website or be sent as attachments to e-mail messages. While many downloads are OK, some are illegal and some contain "viruses" - nasty programs that can damage your computer.

8. Help make the Internet a better place by using good behaviour online. For example, don't swear or send people rude or insulting messages. For more information about "Netiquette", see the Kaboose Rules.

Have fun, and safe surfing!

The Kaboose Team

(With research from "Child Safety on the Information Highway," ©1994 and 1998 by Lawrence J. Magid.)