Role model and rising pop star Whitney Wolanin (WO-lan-in) enjoys spending time on the internet just as much as any other teen, despite her busy academic schedule and her recent success on the radio charts. Out of a concern for the safety of fellow teens and recent media coverage of MySpace and the need to set guidelines for teens and users of online communities, the 15-year-old rising pop star offers her own tips on the safe use of the internet and protecting the family computer.
Whitney has witnessed "cyber-bullying" and "cyber-stalking" first hand and has created a simple list of tips for teens to remain safe and to protect their personal identity. The blonde haired, green eyed high school sophomore first offered her tips to her fans, friends and relatives after her own family and classmates were effected by users who abuse online communities such as MySpace.
Youth Crime Watch is proud to partner with this bright young woman. Keep it up, Whitney!
10 Simple Tips from Whitney Wolanin, teen role model and rising pop star
1. Stranger Danger – Don't talk to strangers or add them to your friends list.
2. Who’s Who? – People may not be who they say they are, so don’t assume they look or act as they do online.
3. Speak Out – If someone seems to be dangerous in any way, tell an adult or authority figure.
4. Homeland Security – Don’t download anything that could possibly harm your computer or invade your privacy.
5. Never – meet someone in person you “met” online; it’s extremely dangerous.
6. Keep It 2 Yourself – Don’t ever tell anyone you don’t know your address, phone number, school, or any personal information.
7. Self-Conscience – If something seems wrong to you, it probably is. Follow your instincts.
8. Chats – Don’t chat with people you don’t know as it could lead you into risky situations.
9. R-E-S-P-E-C-T – Respect yourself and others. Don’t say or do things online that you wouldn’t say in person, especially things that could embarrass you, your friends, or your family.
10. Enjoy – Most importantly, have fun and stay safe by chatting with people you know and avoiding bad situations. People can be much crueler online because they don’t have to say things to you face to face-avoid people who bring you down, especially online, and remember: you’re better than them.
© 2006 Whitney Wolanin
