Some quick thoughts on Internet safety

The Internet can be a very useful tool, but along with that usefulness comes some risks. Here are a few thoughts on how to help protect yourself and your family from some of those risks.

> Keep your personal information private. Do not give out your home address, social security number, credit card numbers, or your phone number. Most reputable businesses will not solicit this information by email.

> If someone is sending you irritating messages online, try ignoring it. If the cyberbully doesn't stop or the messages become frightening contact the police.

> If you are selling something online and anyone asks to pay with a check made out for an amount greater than the cost of the item, and then asks you to Western Union any amount to anyone else...don't do it. This is a scam.

> If you have children who are of an age that they can use the Internet, know what sites they frequent. Be familiar with what chartrooms they use and who they are talking to.

> Have discussions with your children about the dangers of chatting with people they don't know online. Discuss the dangers of meeting people in real life that they met online.

These are just a few simple things that can be helpful in protecting you and those you love from some of the risks that can be avoided. Always remember the saying, if something seems to good to be true, then it probably is.