Do Not Make These Mistakes!

Don't play yourself online... 

 Congratulations! You are finally old enough to be on the internet, I know how excited you are to put yourself out there online and make new friends. You've always wanted to participate in popular trends just like the older kids at your school. I know you can't wait to start, but please don't be fooled by false perceptions. This online world will grant you two superpowers. The first is the power to ruin your own life and the second is the power to ruin someone else's. I am warning you now that things can get scary, but since you're smart you will listen to my advice.

Photo Credit | understood.org, childline.org, stopbullying.gov

by: Cybergirl

                                                                                                                                                              

 Real Vs Fake 

As you explore the online world you will begin to question yourself. Let me remind you that looks can be deceiving, do not be fooled. Having to maintain a fake personality online just for popularity will cause you more harm than you can imagine. Question everything you see online even if you think you know everything and everyone. Do not interact with accounts you do not know personally, do not share any information with anyone online, and always think twice before you post. The online world is not real until you make it into something you cannot escape. Do not let this fake world haunt you for the rest of your life.

Is This Appropriate?

Tiktok is one example of an extremely interactive social media platform. This is where you will see many trends from the popular users and you most likely want to participate. No Problem! Before you post your fun dancing video to your feed ask yourself these questions. Will an adult approve of this video? If you know that you would be turned down by an adult you probably should not post it. Is this trend appropriate for my age? The last thing you want on the internet is you and your neighborhood friends dancing to W.A.P👎 on Tiktok. I'm sure your college administers would be extremely interested in what information you've posted online. Be mindful of who can see your private videos, once you post them you can't take them back.

 Will This Hurt You or Someone Else?

Having an online account can be more than just posting content. You are going to likely interact with people online and express your opinions on things that interest you. It is important that you maintain respectful behavior online. Just because someone online said something to hurt you, doesn't mean you can do it to others. Being a bully online and in person can cause lasting mental health problems to those being attacked. Would you like it if someone pointed out your biggest insecurities? NO! So don't do it to other people online and especially in person. If someone is intentionally bothering you by saying hurtful or mean things do not hesitate to tell someone. If not, take the initiative by blocking, deleting, and reporting them. These are useful tools that are there for you to keep yourself safe.