Youth and Teens Internet safety.
Xpose Hope is an outreach ministry that specifically provides support to adult members of the adult entertainment industry. However, we recognize the importance of talking to and educating the next generation on internet safety behaviors. Please see our general guidelines for 10 things teens can do to protect themselves on the internet.
It is so important that you know that you are loved. Totally loved, just like you are. God made you and He cares about you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even and especially when you aren’t perfect.
We hope that because you are so valued, you will talk to your parents or an adult you trust about Internet safety. Here are a few rules to keep you safe:
Never friend someone on the Internet or follow them on Instagram or Facebook if you don’t know them personally. If someone you don’t know in person starts to follow you on social media, or message you, block them or set your account to private.
Always keep your personal information such as; birth dates, school, important number identifiers, your address and phone number PRIVATE. Never tell personal information to anyone who you don’t know. The same rules apply to screen names. If someone says they need your information they can get it from your parents.
Be the smart person that God made you to be–always question things you see on the Internet. A lot of it is just not real.
Don’t post photos of yourself or others without their permission and your parent’s permission.
Share your Internet passwords to all sites and apps that you use with your parents, or an adult you trust, but DO NOT share it with friends, even your best friend.
If someone or something that you see online or in person makes you feel uncomfortable or pressured, tell your parents or another adult who can help you.
Never meet with someone you don’t know in person. Even if that person tells you they are your age, never EVER go somewhere to meet someone you don’t know. If you really want to meet them, set up a meeting that your parents can attend in a public place.
If you or one of your friends is in a difficult situation ask someone for help, whether it be an older sibling, Parent or another adult.
Do not post or send pictures of yourself to anyone over the internet that you wouldn’t send to your mom or dad.
Do not respond to or participate in bullying messages. If you receive one of these messages, ignore it and talk to a parent or an adult you trust. If you happen to see a peer getting cyber bullied on the internet do not participate.
If your parents are not an option to talk to speak to another adult you feel that you can trust about these issues. This person may be an older sibling, cousin, aunt or uncle, or you may feel more comfortable reaching out to a teacher, or Pastor. If something makes you feel uncomfortable say something.