Understanding how to behave online is important in becoming web savvy. As the Internet continues to become a primary form of communication, it is vital to know what is and is not acceptable behavior while communicating online.

It is especially important for parents to help ensure that their children not only learn proper "Netiquette" at an early age, but that they are also using the Internet safely, appropriately and courteously.

Things to Avoid:

Typing in all capital letters

Shouting or screaming online is rude.

Demanding help on the Net and getting upset because you don't get it.

People are busy: they don't owe you anything. If you ask nicely you might get help.

Formatting emails with colored text/background.

They are difficult to read without converting them.

Posting anything without acknowledging the source.

It is considered good form to not where the item came from with a link or short sentence, even if you have permission to use it.

Sending email to groups and revealing email addresses to the recipients.

It is courteous to all those recipients to place their email address in the BCC field.

Posting any kind of stolen software.

People should be compensated for their efforts. Stealing even a small shareware program or game is illegal and a criminal offence.

Never give out phone numbers or personal information.

Always check out who you are sending the information to, as they may not be reputable party.

Sending any kind of pyramid scheme.

These are ALWAYS illegal, regardless of what they say and they don't work.

Emailing very large files without letting the other person know.

Getting a large file will slow things down for users, fill up their mailbox and prevent them from receiving something that may be more important.

Email virus hoaxes.

Make sure it's real before you tell everyone you know.

Sending something that is infected with a virus.

Scan for viruses regularly and keep your software up-to-date.

Email subject lines that go on and on and on.

Use the body of the email for your message and the subject line for a brief description.

Emails with no subject line at all.

A Spammer tactic. A subject line gives someone a little information before they read the main text. It also helps people sort and organize their emails.

If you cannot point to one of these signs, when you sense something is wrong, ask questions. Internet usage can be eliminated completely until the issue is resolved. Over 18,000 recorded incidents of online enticement of children for sexual acts have been recorded. Don’t feel as if you’re overreacting to the signs.

1. Your child receives unusual amounts of unsolicited e-mail or pop-ups.
   This can be a sign that your child has released his personal information online. There are many enticing contests and sweepstakes, offering free MP3 players or gaming consoles, for instance, as a means of getting your child’s personal information. Alert your children to the possible schemes and remind them never to give out personal information online.
   
   
2. Your child blocks the screen or closes the window when you approach.
   A child’s reflexes can be quick when they know they’re breaking the rules. If you notice quick or unreasonable attempts to conceal his computer screen, you should investigate further.
   
   
3. Your child spends an unusual amount of time online.
   Sometimes children, especially if they’re home alone for extended periods, can become drawn into the social life that chat rooms and Instant Messaging offer. If this is the case, find out who they’re talking to and what chat rooms they’re visiting. While predators can be online at any hour, they are particularly active in the evenings.
   
   
4. Your child changes password and/or will not share it with you.
   It’s a good idea to keep up with your child’s password. If they become secretive about accessing their account, it may be time for you to dig deeper.
   
   
5. Your child uses another online account.
   Public computers, in libraries or coffeehouses, are usually Internet ready and sometimes offer unlimited access that your child may not have at home. If your child seems to prefer the unlimited access, ask for an explanation.
   
   
6. Your child withdraws from family or friends.
   Sexual predators pull children closer to them by pushing them away from family and friends. Children also tend to become withdrawn after being sexually victimized either physically or verbally.
   
   
7. You discover photos of strangers on your child’s computer.
   Do random searches of your child’s computer for files with photo file extensions such as .jpg, .tiff, .gif, or bmp. Ask your child to identify any photos of strangers, and if any are suspicious write down the information your child gives you about the person.
   
   
8. Your child receives phone calls from strangers.
   Many predators prefer phone conversations. A predator may ask the child to call collect, and when the child calls, the predator records the phone number through caller ID. A quick phone number search using any basic search engine could also reveal your child’s home address (To try it, type your phone number into Google and watch as your name and home address pop up).
   
   
9. Your child receives gifts or packages from someone unknown to you.
   Predators may try to send photos or gifts through the mail. Gifts are frequently a form of seduction used by sexual predators. If any of this activity occurs, take action immediately.
   
   
10. You discover inappropriate images or files on your child’s computer.
    This warning sign also requires immediate action. Find out the origin of the file. If it’s an image your child has voluntarily downloaded from a commercial entity, it’s time to install or improve your filtering software, as well as restrict your child’s Internet usage. If an individual sent the file, contact law enforcement.

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