Nothing online is totally private.

When you share posts, texts, tweets, photos, or videos - it is all very public. Use privacy setting to help limit who will see what you post. But keep in mind that what you post can still be forwarded or shared.

What you post can last a long time.

You can delete a post or photo, but that doesn't mean it is gone. It may show up years later.

If you don't want everyone to see it, don't post it!

Do you want you parents to see what you post? How about your grandparents? Teachers? A future boss? What about college admissions staff? If not, don't put it out there.

Jokes can get you into trouble.

You may know that you're joking, but others may not know that. Jokes can get you in trouble (even legal trouble) if you are teasing or harassing 

Never pretend to be someone else.

Using someone's name, photo, or other information in a posting or profile could be identity theft. This may get you in legal trouble. 

People you meet online really are still strangers.

If you want to meet someone you have gotten to know online, talk to your parents first. Never agree to meet the person alone - it is simply not safe. No matter how long you've been chatting, you don't really know who that person is. 

Don't give out your personal information, especially on public profiles. 

Be careful with what personal information you leave on any of your social media. Especially on public profiles, make sure that there isn't much revealing information. A name is OK when registering an account, but if possible, try to come up with a username with something else mixed in or only half of your name. NEVER give any of your banking information or any kind of government ID (those include: IRS information, SSN, Driver's Licence/Permit/CDL, Employment Authorisation, Passport, Residency card, etc). Any personal email or physical address should be left only inside the settings for the signing-up process, not for the public eye, unless specified for contact purposes.

Keep your passwords private. 

Don't share passwords, even with friends. Friends can make mistakes, be unkind, or may stop being a friend. Be careful with your phone, too. Someone using your phone can pretend to be you. 

If someone bullies or harasses you online, take action. 

Don't respond, but do save the message. Analyze the situation. Talk to an adult you trust. An adult can help you decide what to do. If someone threatens you, talk with the police through an adult.

Stop and think before you send. 

What to say and do online can sometimes be taken the wrong way. You may say something you don't mean to say if you are upset or mad. Be careful so that you don't hurt others, or hurt your own reputation.