Place and keep computer(s) with Internet access in an open, commonly used space.

Never give out personal information or passwords, P.I.N. numbers etc. Personal information includes your name, the names of friends or family, your address, phone number, school name (or team name if you play sports). Personal info also includes pictures of yourself and your e-mail address. Ask permission before sharing any information with a Web site, a "chat buddy" and even when registering a product purchased for your computer (like a game). Passwords are secrets. Never tell anyone your password except your parents or guardian.

Don't believe everything you see or read. Just because someone online tells you that they are 15 doesn't mean they are telling the truth. Even adults can't tell when a male pretends to be a female or a 50 year old pretends to be a 15 year old.

Use "Netiquette". Be polite to others online just as you would off-line. If someone treats you rudely or meanly–do not respond. Online bullies are just like off-line ones. They WANT you to answer (don't give them the satisfaction).

Don't send a message to someone else when you are angry. Wait until you have calmed down and had time to think. Do your best to make sure that your messages are calmly and factually written. You will usually regret sending a "Flame" (angry) to someone else later on. Once you've sent a message, it is VERY hard to undo the damage that such "flames" can do.

Don't open a message from someone you don't know. If in doubt about it, ask parents, guardian or another adult.

If it doesn't look or feel right, it probably isn't. Trust your instincts and teach your child to trust their instincts. While surfing the Internet, if you find something that you don't like, makes you feel uncomfortable or scares you, turn off the computer and tell an adult.

You don't have to be "Always On." Turn off, disconnect, unplug, try actual reality instead of virtual reality! Give yourself a break. Don't stay online or connected too long. Spend time with your family and friends off line.

Don't reply to messages from cyber-bullies. Even though you may really want to, this is exactly what cyber-bullies want. They want to know that they've got you worried and upset. They are trying to mess with your mind and control you, to put fear into you. Don't give them that pleasure.

Do not keep this to yourself! You are NOT alone and you did NOT do anything to deserve this! Tell an adult you know and trust.