These days, you are able to find out just about anything on the ‘information highway’, more formally known as the Internet. Both good and bad, you have access to all types of websites, chat rooms, videos, and bulletin boards. With thousands of ways to access the Internet, and with encyclopedias, books, and magazines becoming outdated, your parents are allowing you more freedom in what they are starting to consider this essential part of your life. However, with all freedom comes responsibility, which is why you must be smart and make good decisions while using the Internet, just as you would in real life.

The problem with the ‘web’ is that anyone in the world is able to publish information on it. Internet providers give ‘web’ access to you as an individual, but cannot control what you choose to do with that acquisition. Because anyone can post information, anyone can get access to that information, too. So, giving any form of identification information to strangers, or allowing insecure websites to use credit card or SS (social security) numbers is dangerous. Although it is up to your parents to decide the boundaries of your Internet use, it is up to you to stay within those boundaries and productively and safely use this wonderful tool. While it is a tool worth having, parts of it can potentially harm you or someone you love.

There are a few risks for anyone, especially you as children. One risk is that you may accidentally open some form of inappropriate material, whether it is violent, sexual, or illegally encouraging. Furthermore, you are at the risk of giving away personal information that could lead to molestation or the use of a credit card number to rack up your parents’ or your bills. These hazards have potential to harm not only your wellbeing, but the financial status of your family, as well. They’re all undeniable truths that can be easily dealt with.    

Now, because the Internet also has many astonishing benefits, not using it for fear of its dangers would be impractical. It is the largest source of reference information in the world. It is also one of the most simple and efficient manners by which to communicate, whether through e-mail or instant messaging. It is an informative, educational, and entertaining tool that serves as an asset to all those who are able to access it. Safe, happy, and productive use of the Internet is the best way to learn and have fun at the same time.