Sometimes adults overreact and are ridiculous when it comes to online activities. Other times, they've got a point.
Talking Points:
- The biggest threat online is YOU! You posting or uploading something stupid is dangerous. Before you post or upload something, ask yourself if you’d be cool with your grandma seeing it.
- The second online threat is predators. These are people who want to take advantage of you by harming your physically or by stealing your information and your money. “Avoid the temptation to give information.” Don’t share your personal information unless you know for sure it’s with a safe person.
- The third threat is pornography. Close to 12% of ALL websites online are porn sites. Porn can and will cause serious psychological damage to anyone who views it consistently. You need to protect yourself with filtering software and parental oversight.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Are there online threats you’ve seen that weren’t listed in this topic? What are they?
- Do you think the rule of thumb about your online content being “grandma appropriate” is good? Why or why not?
- What are some ways you think predators might try to get information about you?
- How can you be smart about sharing your personal information online so it doesn’t fall into the hands of predators?
- Do you think it’s easy for people to find porn online, even accidentally? Have you seen this happen? Explain.
- Why do you think pornography can be dangerous for teens?
- What steps can you take to protect yourself from pornography online?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
