Internet Safety

• Is the use of the Internet, including e-mail, chat rooms, message boards, and discussion forums to threaten, harass, or stalk another person.
• Differs from traditional "stalking" in that the individual can be miles away or literally next door.
• Personal information (name, address, phone, etc.) is relatively easy to find online.
• Much more common than you would think.
• Be sure to pick a username or screen names that does not reveal your gender, age, or geographic area.
• Do not fill out "profiles" that reveal personal details.
• Do not assume people you meet virtually online are telling you the truth regarding their personal details.
• Be extremely cautious about meeting someone in real life that you met online.
• Save all communications for evidence.  Keep a record of your contacts with Internet system administrators or law enforcement officials as well.
• If harassment continues after you have asked the person to stop, contact the harasser's ISP (Internet Service Provider) or the local police department.
  
  See PDF Fact Sheet Cyberstalking

• Identify Theft refers to all types of crimes in which someone wrongfully obtains and uses the personal information of another in such a way that involves fraud or deception, usually for financial gain.
• One of the fast growing crimes in America is identify theft.
• Personal data (i.e. social security numbers, bank account information, credit card information, etc.) can be used by the wrong person to personally profit at your expense.
• People can even use identify information to completely take over the victim's identity which would allow them to build massive debt and commit criminal acts in the "name" of their victims.
• Never give out personal information over the phone if you are not absolutely certain who it is.
• Avoid discarding papers and letters that have personal information on them without shredding and cutting them up first.
• Keep in mind that online ordering requires personal information and can potentially be dangerous.  Order by phone whenever possible.  Be sure to print receipts of any online orders and keep a record.
• Do not print personal information numbers on checks, such as your SSN, date of birth, credit card account, etc.
• Try and limit the number of personal identifiers and credit cards that you carry around in your wallet or handbag.
• Always ask if your personal information will be kept confidential when you are being asked to present it.
  
  See PDF Fact Sheet Personal Identification Security

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