ONLINE SAFETY

Being online can be fun, sociable and inspiring. At petcompare.com we want you to enjoy the time you spend online at our site and using our services. For that reason, we've prepared a few tips to help you stay safe when online.

It is important that when you chat, either as comments, private message, or participate in groups and events, you keep the following things in mind:


1.    BE DISCREET

The information you provide is often public, for all to see. Do not share information or images that you do not want the world to know about or see. Think - your information could be passed on.


2.   BE ANONYMOUS

Do not share private or very personal information. Never post or send anything that can be used to locate you or another person offline, such as a full name, email or home address or phone number.


3.   BE DISTANT

Do not arrange to meet in person anyone you've met online. If you must, only meet somewhere that is safe and public, tell someone your plans and then bring a friend along. If you aren't an adult, get your parent or guardian's permission first and take them with you.


4.   BE HONEST

You may be tempted to pretend to be someone you are not. The other person may also do the same thing. They may not be who they say they are.


5.   BE NICE

Don't take on bullies or cyber-bully anyone else. If someone taunts you, walk away from the computer. Report the person or behaviour to an adult or administrator. It's supposed to be fun, right?


6.   BE CLEAN

Do not open, respond to or forward a message or comment unless you know the person who sent it to you.


7.   BE SECURE

Use security software (such as virus scanners). Ensure your system is up-to-date and protected.


8.   BE PRIVATE

Never share your password or password hints with anyone.


9.   BE INVENTIVE

Ensure the online IDs you create do not reveal your personal information. Be creative and unique!


10.   BEWARE

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Check the facts if you aren't sure about something. And remember - you're in control. You decide which activities to participate in and what information you provide.


Insafe is the European Safer Internet awareness-raising network and is co-funded by the European Commission. For further information please visit:
www.saferinternet.org

The Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre is committed to protecting children. For further information please visit:
www.thinkyouknow.co.uk