The internet is being used by more and more people each day. Its pretty safe to say, it is just going to continue to grow. People are spending more time online connecting to friends and families, and the world at large, through their computer screens and mobile devices. On June 30th, 2011, CLBC launched Icanbesafeonline.com, a fun and easy to use website that educates adults with diverse abilities and their families, about how to stay safe when using the Internet. This is the only site of its kind in Canada and we are really excited about it. CLBC recognizes that individuals and their families want to enjoy the Internet and take full advantage of everything online has to offer. We created the website to encourage and help people to learn how to practice safe internet habits and to ensure that they stay in control and to understand what to do if they feel at risk. The website features online safety tips, videos, and quizzes.
The Internet opens a world of information and it can also put your safety and privacy at risk. We all know someone who has experienced an embarrassing or scary situation. The more aware you are of the potential risks the more likely you are to be safe and to stay safe. So what kinds of things can we do to protect ourselves? Here are a few tips that you will find on the website to help you:
1. Protect your password – keeping your password private means that only you hold the key to your private information.
2. Find a “checker friend” – sometimes we need someone else to keep an eye on our posts to make sure we are being safe online.
3. It’s OK to say no – it’s good to “un-friend” or “un-follow” someone if they make you feel uncomfortable. Saying “no” means that you are in control of your online life.
4. Think before you send or post – keep private what is private. Once you have posted personal information or picture online, there is a record of it forever, even if you have deleted it!
Visit the site Icanbesafeonline.com to learn more about how to be safe online. Share the website with your friends and family. Have fun and be safe online!
