Detectives Share Internet Safety Tips With Northbrook Students

From District 30 Schools: "One click can make a difference in another person's life," stated Northbrook Police Detective Marc Fainman. He and detective Michael Tadley recently spoke to Maple School sixth through eighth-graders about internet safety, cyberbullying, online predators, sharing too much, and relying on trusted adults. One of the first things that students heard was that cyberbullying is against the law.

Tips on cyberbullying included: Avoid gossip; don't feed the cyberbullies by responding, and that bystanders are guilty too.

"Speak up and keep your friends in check," said Detective Fainman. Pupils were reminded never to share too much, and to protect their space with privacy settings, and more. "It's important to talk to your parents or guardians. They're not as uptight as you think," added Detective Fainman. A reference to NetSmartz.org/TipSheets was made, so that parents and students can review vital information to help keep everyone safer while on the internet.

Other helpful suggestions included the following:

• If you wouldn't say something to another person's face, don't text it or post online.
• If anything makes you feel uncomfortable online, while gaming or using your cell phone, talk with your parents or guardian right away.
• Never share your password with anyone, including your best friend. The only people who should know your password are your parents or guardian.
• Never post personal information on any social networking site.
• Never meet in person with anyone your first "met" on the internet.
• Don't download or install software or anything on your computer or cell phone before checking with your parents or guardian.

Photos via Northbrook/Glenview District 30