5. Avoid "crashing" discussion groups or forums.
People on the Net frequently get together online to talk about things they may have in
common. This can be done on a listserv, a bulletin board, a chat group, etc. If you join
the discussion just for the fun of "crashing" it, or ruining it, people will
definitely get angry.
6. Respect the privacy of other people.
If someone tells you something secret, it should be kept secret. This includes
passwords, full names, addresses, or interests. Sharing your own password with someone
else, even someone you like, is never a good idea. Passwords and personal information are
private, and are never safe to share with others.
7. Be responsible online.
When you are at the computer, you are in control. Avoid using the computer to harm other
people. Taking things which are not yours (such as files, passwords, or credit card
numbers), spreading rumors about other people online, and infecting other computers with
viruses (on purpose) are examples of harming other people online.
8. Help other people learn more about the Net.
Chances are someone else taught you a lot of what you know about the Internet. The Net
is growing quickly, and it's difficult to keep up. Other kids, or even your parents and
teachers, may need help understanding what it's all about. Try to help them if you can.
Who knows? They might show you a thing or two someday!
