Web Safety

Young Scot WOW is a brilliant way for finding out what is going on in your area and across Scotland. While taking part in new activities and opportunities is fantastic, we also want you to be aware about your own safety.

Here are some personal safety guides that you and your friends should take a look at:

• Use the activity details you find on WOW (e.g contact name, phone number) to find out more about the opportunity before you show up. Is it what you expected?
• Always tell someone where you are going, who you are going with and when you'll be back
• Plan ahead i.e. know the exact address, carry enough bus fare, make sure there is enough credit/charge in your mobile phone
• Never accept lifts from someone you don't know
• Safety in numbers - don't split up from your mates or go off on your own
• On route, don’t take short cuts down poorly lit walkways or parks
• Trust your instincts - your "gut" feeling or 6th sense. If something doesn't feel right it probably isn't. Do something about it – tell a responsible person about your doubts.

Online

For the most part the internet is a fabulous thing. But, as in all walks of life, it can attract a variety of negative activity. Here’s a few tips to bear in mind while you’re online.

• If you are chatting to people on the internet, then don't tell anyone you talk to any of your personal details, especially your address, telephone number, age, etc.
• Don't ever send anyone your picture, any of your bank details, or credit card details without first checking. You can check if a site is secure by looking to the bottom of your screen for a lock/padlock icon. If it is locked then the site is secure. For more info you can click on the padlock.
• Don't sign up for a get rich quick scheme. If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is. It may even end up costing you money.
• Don't arrange to meet anyone unless your parent or carer goes with you and you meet in a very public place with lots of people around. People you contact online are not always who they say they are. No one can check if your online friends are what they claim - because no one can see them.
• Don't open email attachments unless they are from someone you already know and trust. Attachments can contain viruses or other programmes that can destroy all the information and software on your computer.
• Don't respond to nasty, suggestive messages, or rude pictures. Tell your parent or carer to report them to your Internet Service Provider immediately.

We want you to enjoy your time on the Internet as it’s a great way of find out more information and opportunities that you can enjoy.