At Our VOICE, we want you to Own Who U R!
This means using technology in ways that keep you safe from cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, and targeting by sexual predators.
The internet can be a wonderful tool because it allows us to stay connected with friends and family who might live far away, but it can also be a risky place because we can communicate with strangers or people we don’t know that well. Don’t assume that you are safe just because you aren’t in the same room with the person you’re talking to! Remember to never put any personal or private information online- like where you live or what your phone number is.
Even when you do know the person on the other end of your technology, you can’t assume that everyone will treat you with the respect you deserve. Cyberbullies can use the internet to be mean, using text and pictures to embarrass and hurt.
Worse, sometimes the attention you get on the internet represents unwanted sexual attention. Sexting can have serious and long-term negative consequences.
Did you know…
That you can’t assume that what you send online will remain private? 40% of teens and young adults say they have had a sexually suggestive message shown to them that was originally meant to be private.
That once an image or text is in cyberspace, it is always there? Employers, teachers, friends, parents, and coaches all may be able to find your past posts or pictures… even if you delete them.
That nothing is anonymous. People can figure out who other people are on the internet.
Just think about it! How much control do you have over anything that is sent out in a text message or put on the internet? Once you send a message or picture, you no longer have control or can take back that message.
Always remember that you can’t control what other people do. What you can do is control your own image. Own Who U R and use technology safely!
