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Advice from SOC's: Teen Advice Column (Internet Safety)
by Nancy Quinn Dear SOC's: My friend said she now has a "boyfriend" in Texas who is her same age that she met on the internet. She's thinking of giving him her address so he can write to her. Is that safe? SOC's: No doubt you and your friends enjoy spending a lot of time surfing the internet, not only making your homework research projects a breeze, but you've also probably made some world-wide friends as well. But just like you wouldn't let a stranger into your home, don't allow the comfort of sitting in your room make you forget that you are connecting with potentially hundreds and thousands of strangers throughout the world! The "boyfriend" your friend has met may not be her same age OR living in Texas! Giving any personal information to any stranger is dangerousd. Don't let the comfort of thinking an internet friend is far away give you a false sense of security. Here are some tips to keep you safe: *Choose a screen name or handle that won't give away your name, age, sex or location. *Never give out your personal email address, phone number or where you live. *Don't send photos of yourself to someone you don't know. *Never travel alone to meet someone you know only through the internet. *Don't use your webcam to communicate with someone you don't know. *Use that log off button when you need to if you feel pressured by someone you met online or you're starting to feel a little wary. Go with your instincts and block them or log off. The awesome expanse of the internet helps you find answers to any of your questions. But it also allows you access to sites that open doors for the enemy to tempt you to sin and pull you away from a relationship with God. God invites you to access a direct line to His love and salvation through Jesus Christ. He doesn't deny ANYONE access but wants everyone to know Him! If you don't know Him yet, you can just pray the following prayer, and you'll find an open door to salvation, eternal life and His love and promised friendship to you forever! God doesn't promise a perfect life, but He does promise you peace, joy and eternal life with Him and Jesus will never let you down! ***************** Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. Please forgive my sins and give me the gift of eternal life. I ask you in to my life and heart to be my Lord and Savior. I want to serve you always." ******************* May God bless these words as I strive to encourage others in their walk with Christ. Please contact me if you would like to request a specific lesson that Lucy Mouse can teach your children or if you would like a coloring page to be sent to match the story! Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |