Here are some interesting statistics to support the need for adult intervention:
1. 93% of teenagers use the internet.
2. 1 in 3 teens have been harassed in some way on-line.
3. Predators seek youths vulnerable to seduction, including those with histories of sexual or physical abuse, those who post sexually provocative photos/video, and those who talk about sex with unknown people online.
4. 1 in 25 youths received an online sexual solicitation where the solicitor tried to make offline contact.
5. 15% of cell-owning teens (12-17) say they have received sexually suggestive nude/semi-nude images of someone they know via text.
6. 25% of kids 10 to 17 years of age received unwanted pornographic material on line.
Have I made my point? Teachers must educate students to be wary of who they talk with, what kinds of pictures or videos they post, and to whom they give access to their private cyber world. Based on three articles I read, Internet Safety, Teen Safety on the Internet, and Internet Safety: Safe Surfing Tips for Teens
teachers really need to emphasize a number of safety features for students to remember:
1. Do not EVER give out personal information like one's real name, address, phone number, or gender.
2. NEVER meet in person anyone you originally met on line.
3. Never share passwords to give strangers access to private information.
4. If you feel uncomfortable in any way, pay attention and contact an adult.
Other aspects of internet safety include issues surrounding cyberbullying and other on-line annoyances, like hacking. These issues are easily remedied by following the same rules as listed above. The idea is to remember that the internet is anonymous and wild and open to everyone. Kids need to know how to be secure and how to exercise proper Netiquette to ensure their continued success exploring the world safely.