FBI Kids: Safety Tips

FBI Kids: Safety Tips - Safety tips about the Internet, talking to strangers, and guns from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).There are some very important things that you need to keep in mind when you're on your computer at home or at school.

* First, remember never to give out personal information such as your name, home address, school name, or telephone number in a chat room or on bulletin boards. Also, never send a picture of yourself to someone you chat with on the computer without your parent's permission.

* Never write to someone who has made you feel uncomfortable or scared.

* Do not meet someone or have them visit you without the permission of your parents.

* Tell your parents right away if you read anything on the Internet that makes you feel uncomfortable.

* Remember that people online may not be who they say they are. Someone who says that "she" is a "12-year-old girl" could really be an older man.

To read more about new privacy rules, visit the Federal Trade Commission's Web site at www.ftc.gov. There is a special section just for kids.

Here are some good rules to follow to protect yourself.

1. Share a secret code word.

You and your parents should agree on a code word that is easy for you to remember. This way, if anyone tells you that you need to come with them because your parents were hurt or are in the hospital, you can ask them for the code word. If they really are a friend, they will know the code word that you and your parents share. If they do not know the code word, you should run away from them as fast as possible.

2. Stay away from strangers.

Who is a stranger? If you've seen someone hanging around your playground at school or in your neighborhood, this does not mean that you know him or her. Although he has a familiar face, he is still a stranger to you!

3. Grownups should NOT ask kids to do things that other adults can
do for them.

This means that you should not go, or get in a car, with an adult who, for example, asks you for directions. Grownups should not ask you to help them find a lost puppy or kitten, either. If someone does ask for your help, say, "Wait here and I'll check with my mom." Then go get your mom.

4. If you lose your parents in a public place like a store or a park
do not go looking for them.

Immediately ask someone who works there to help you find them. Tell them you have been separated from your parents and you need help finding them.

5. Always ask your parents or a grownup in charge before:

* going anywhere with anybody;
* leaving the yard, play area, or going into someone's home;
* getting a ride home with someone other than your bus driver or your usual ride; and/or
* getting into a car or going somewhere with somebody even if it's someone you know!!

6. Once you have permission from your parents:

* Tell them where you are going
* Tell them how you will get there
* Tell them who will be going with you
* Tell them when you will be back
* And get back on time or call to let them know when you will be back!

7. If someone follows you on foot or in a car, STAY AWAY.

You do NOT need to go near the car to talk to the people inside.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).