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Internet Security
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The Internet is an
opportunity for you to interact with people. It provides a
communication link to businesses, entertainment, and education.
Through the Internet you can interact with people from other
towns, cities, and countries. You can learn about other
cultures, customs and lifestyles. It is an opportunity to make
new friends and learn more about the world in which we live.
However, the Internet by design is an anonymous media. This
aspect can make it easy for someone to use the Internet for
criminal means. Because you are 'speaking' with someone via your
computer, it is nearly impossible to verify many things about
that person. These may include:
 | The Person's Identity -
The Person with whom you are speaking may not be using their
real name. It is possible with some Internet Service Providers
(ISP's) to check the account information of someone you've had
contact with. However, that person may have been using someone
else's account or may have provided false information to the
ISP. |
| The Person's Description -
We often take for granted the ability to see the person we are
speaking with. However, on the Internet nothing can be
verified. You can not use your eyes to verify the person's
age, race, or even gender. |
| The Person's Location - On
the Internet it is very easy for someone to say they are one
place, when in reality they could be around the corner or
across the country. |
| The Person's Intentions -
Most people use the internet for honest and honorable
intentions. However, someone who exploits the Internet,
especially criminals and conartists, can seem very
straightforward at first, but they are experts at
manipulation. They use confidence-scams, or even just friendly
conversation, to make you believe what they want you to
believe. Then they have you act on that belief. |
Connection Security
Internet security is very important and new technologies are
being developed everyday to ensure your protection. However,
there are persons out there who know how to intercept
communications. Your communication with a known friend or
acquaintance could be seen by others. There is also no guarantee
that the person you are 'speaking' with is acting alone or uses
good security with your information.
Tips you should use when communicating
on-line
Common sense tempered with caution is still your best
protection. Listed below are some safety tips you should use
when communicating on-line:
| Do not give out any personal information, home address or
phone number. If you are using a 'nickname' don't give out
your real name to anyone you don't know. If you are listed in
the phone book, they can use it to find you. |
| Do not give anyone your account password. No legitimate
and reputable ISP will send you a message or e-mail asking for
your password or account information. Many hackers know how to
send you messages that appear to be from your ISP. If you
receive one of these messages, contact your provider
immediately!. |
| Do not give out any personal account information such as
internet account or personal financial accounts (credit card
or checking/saving account) until you are absolutely sure of
their credibility and connection security. |
| Do not arrange a personal meeting with anyone you have met
on the Internet unless, and until, you are able to verify
their true identity and can arrange the following:
 | Meet in a public place that is well lighted and busy.
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| Meet during busy business hours and not close to closing
or after dark. |
| Arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting.
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| Bring a friend; Double-date. Do not meet the person
alone! |
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REMEMBER:
A stranger you meet on the Internet is just like a stranger
you meet in a bar, restaurant, or on the street!! Use the same
precautions you use in these situations, when meeting people on
the Internet!!
If you do have suspicions about someone you may have spoken
with on the Internet, or if you have in someway been offended or
threatened, contact your service provider immediately. Give them
as much information about the situation as possible. This should
include any contact information, such as on-screen name, account
information (name, address, phone, account number) and/or e-mail
address. You should also be straight-forward as to how you were
offended or threatened. Most ISP's provide on-line information
on reporting such incidents. Be familiar with your provider's
procedures.
If at any time you suspect criminal activity is taking place,
or if you are threatened or harassed, you may contact the
Tewksbury Police Department by calling 9-1-1. |
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