Think Before You Click

• Cyberbullying - harassment, threats, or humiliation through digital platforms

• Online Predators - strangers who manipulate or exploit teens through social media or chat rooms

• Privacy Risks - oversharing personal information, leading to identity theft or stalking

• Inappropriate Content - exposure to harmful, violent, or explicit material

• Scams and phishing - fraudulent messages or links tricking teens into giving personal details

• Addiction and screen time issues - excessive internet use affecting mental health and daily life

• Reputation damage - posting or sharing content that could harm future opportunities

• Education on privacy, social media use, and online threats creates a safer digital space

• Open communication helps students feel comfortable communicating with parents and teachers for guidance

If you experience or witness an online threat:

• Tell someone! A trusted adult or even the police

• Walk away and ignore, do not feed into threats

• Report and block the account that is making threats

Protect Personal Information:

• Strong passwords and two-factor authentication

• Adjust privacy settings to approve who views your account

• Avoid oversharing personal details - birthday, home address, SSN

Safe Online Communication: 

• If you are unsure, speak with a trusted adult

• Speak online as you would in-person

  • Respect, empathy, careful choice of words

Digital Footprint:

• Any post, comment, or text will forever be on the internet

• Any hurtful or sensitive shared online can be tracked

• May lead to criminal record and poor long-term mental health

• Always THINK before sharing

Social Media Usage: 

• No more than 2 hours per day for high school aged students 

• Learn boundaries that meet your circumstances

• Work with parents, students, and teachers to develop boundaries for online usage

• Discuss experiences and take action if there are potential threats

• Always be respectful when posting online

• Be aware of mental health effects and practice monitoring/self-monitoring