Human trafficking is real, and it can begin online. Never give personal information to a stranger in a chat room or to a “friend” that you met while playing online games. You really do not know this person. If you are aware of trafficking, contact the Human Trafficking Hotline.
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I’m always looking for tips to help teens navigate the digital world safely. Please comment with your suggestions.
Here are some tips from around the Internet and from Homer High students.
- Do not use social media until you are out of high school. Don’t even get an account.
- Never take a photo of your naked self, and never email or text such a photo to anyone. It will live forever on the Internet.
- Never text while driving.
- Never read your phone at all while driving. Pull over to use your phone.
- Don’t use your phone to cheat in class. Cheating is not cool.
- If someone is harassing you via text, email, or app, report it immediately. If you are not taken seriously, report it to someone else. Keep reporting until you get help.
- Teachers know when you are using your phone in class.