Stay safe online

Keep logging on but keep savvy because the internet is a great hiding place for people who could be out to take advantage of you.

Controlling your image on social networks
The internet is a public space, and anyone can see the pictures or info you put up about yourself on your site. While it's great to be creative and individual, a good rule to remember is you should be just as happy for your mates to see your online name or profile picture as for your mum, maths teacher or the creepy guy who lives down the street to see it. If you're on MySpace, click the "no pic forwarding" option on your settings, or people can send images of you wherever they like without your consent. If you put up a sexy pic of yourself, some people out there might think you're up for some sexy chat, and that's when things can get dangerous!

Don't make it easy for weirdos
No one needs to see your email address or phone number online, so don't put it out there. Mates will have your number already and if they don't, they can send you a private message and you can respond personally. Any information about where you go to school, or pictures of you or your mates in uniform, will make it easy for someone to find you for a face-to-face meeting, invited or not, so be careful not to post pictures or info that can identify where you live. Using your last name can make you findable too, and even mentioning when or where you might be going to a party or gig can be an accidental invite. If your mates need directions, get them to call you or at least message you privately.

Trust your instincts
Don't be persuaded to give out information or send pictures to anyone online you don't know in ‘real life'. The second you feel weird about someone who's online with you or your friends, talk to the site administrator and go offline. If you're worried about someone online, talk to an adult you trust. If it seems serious and you're worried about your safety or a friend's safety, report it online at thinkuknow.net. If you're really scared and think someone knows where you are and is out to physically find you, go offline and call the police on 999.

Keep thinking
Go to www.thinkuknow.net for loads more tips on staying in control and keeping social networking and gaming fun. As well as how to make sure you get what you intend when downloading music files or podcasts, the site even shows you how to keep your computer safe form viruses.