Internet Safety
All of us at PlanetWisdom want to provide a safe place for students on the Internet. The Internet is the only form of communication that has little regulations and almost zero law enforcement methods in place. This is part of what makes the Internet such a wonderful place, but with all freedoms come many evils and we want you to be safe as you surf the net. Many of you have parents who have know little about the Internet, but have heard some horror stories. Have them read this and maybe it will give them some ideas about how to keep you safe. Your parents are only trying to look out for you. Most of them do not want to be unreasonable. Helping them do this might cost you some freedoms, but you will benefit in the long run. Following these principles will help you be a Wise Netizen.
1. Never Give out Personal Information to people you don't know or cannot verify.
Often in our guestbook people will give out personal information (like where they live or a phone number, sometimes an emotional need as well). Can you trust me with this information? You bet . . but what about some stranger who happens to be cruising through our site. You may have given him the information and the background they need to make a personal contact with you. Make sure when you post information in public places (PlanetWisdom Thought Cafe, or Guestbook) that it is something you wouldn't mind being read by everybody.
Just because someone tells you they are me (in a chat room let's say) you cannot verify this. I have had several interesting conversations with myself in a chat room (with others posing as me!). They were not being malicious (just funny) but you see why you need to be careful. In our Chat room, moderators names will appear in blue. If my name isn't in blue .. it isn't me.
Anytime that we ask for personal information (name address, etc) on this website you have the assurance that it will not be used by anyone but WisdomWorks. Your names are not sold or rented to any organization.
2. Nobody at WisdomWorks (or PlanetWisdom) will EVER contact you by phone to discuss personal issues.
Typically, we will work through your youth pastor if you need help, or we need to contact you. This is for your safety. If you need to reach us, please call us so you know that you are in fact talking with us.
3. Protect your mind from harmful stuff.
There are so many good things on the Internet why get sucked into the bad things? There are a couple of ways to do this.
A. Let your parents have the password (so only they know it) to your online account so you cannot get to the Internet without there consent. I know this sounds awfully terrible, but knowing your parents know what your doing can protect you from danger. It will ease there anxiety about you surfing the net, as well. Most likely, they will help keep you from wasting time by getting absorbed in online activity. Even as an adult I have to guard against the time I spend on the Internet, it is just so --- fun.
B. There are many bad places to go on the Internet -- don't look for them. I know that many of these terrible sites will be coming to look for you (via email). One solution for your family may be to put the computer in a public area of the house instead of a closed off room. This can help reduce the temptation to "wander" when you know people are watching. Also, if you use AOL have your parents use the parental controls to filter harmful email and protect you from internet dangers. You may also want to look into a filtered Internet Service Provider or an accountability solutions like NetAccountability.
C. Spend time getting involved in the good areas. We are working harder than ever to make PlanetWisdom a place you can meet people and share ideas. Let us know how we can serve you better.
I have been on the Internet since 1989. I remember when I could only find two books about it in the bookstore. I have seen it change into a great technology for bringing people together. The good far outweighs the bad if you are wise in how you participate. The Internet is an essential part of your generations future, and learning how to use it safely is a must for the cause of Christ. If your parents have questions or concerns, please have them contact me mark@wisdomworks.org.
Be Wise! -------> Mark Matlock