CyberSmarts: Staying Safe Online

One of the most dangerous things that can happen to a young user on the Internet is to be contacted by an online predator. This volume explains how to avoid predators and what steps to take if readers are contacted by somebody untrustworthy online. Sidebars highlight the finer points of the discussion, such as the role the government plays in protecting children online.

Social networking is incredibly popular among all age groups today. However, some kids are signing up for social networks that are above their age range, such as Facebook. This book discusses the dangers of being involved in a network that is not appropriate for you. It provides examples and resources for social networks better suited to its readers. Privacy on social networks is a key to staying safe from harm online. High-interest sidebars discuss the government's role in protecting children on social networks and how social networking affects our lives.

Kids are naturally trusting, and the nature of the Internet and social networks today is to share information about yourself at the drop of a hat. This helpful volume will teach kids to be mindful of what they do with their personal information, including how they share their photos and set their privacy settings on social networks. It focuses not only data tied to your identity, but also how to keep your system safe from Phishing schemes, spyware, and malicious attacks. A thoughtful discussion on the importance of a strong password and tips for being safe online are included.

With our ever-increasing technological advances in the mobile and Internet spheres, our ability to reach out and contact one another has expanded as well. But this state up constant contact and connection has caused an up tick in cyberbullying among kids and teenagers. Today, bullying can be anonymous and relentless. This volume aims to explain this painful problem that plagues so many young readers and offers important guidance for understanding and stopping a cyberbully in their tracks. Sidebars and full-color photographs, as well as helpful resources and an expansive glossary make this resource an essential to blocking cyberbullying for good.

Online games have exploded as a popular medium for kids and adults alike. From simple single-player "casual games" to massive multiplayer online games (or mmogs), there are a lot of ways to have fun online, but there are also risks. This book teaches readers how to participate safely in the online gaming community, from keeping personal information safe while gaming on social networks to avoiding bullies and "griefers" online. The text provides resources for kids to play games online as well as sidebars that dive deeper into this high-interest topic.