Protecting Yourself On-line

The Internet is not a very dangerous place (compared, say, to driving a kei-car on the Tomei), but there are several things to be careful about.

Viruses

• Computer viruses are quite common and can cause damage to computer software.
• To avoid getting a virus, do not download and try to install any software without checking it with anti-virus software.
• Be careful of e-mail messages, even from people you know, if they have an unexpected attachment.
• Never open an attachment from a person you don't know.
• Sometimes opening the attachment launches a virus.
• Delete any messages and attachments from someone you don't know.

Spam

Spam is electronic junk mail. Go here for more information on avoiding it.

Personal Details

1. Do not give out any personal details such as your:

• complete name,
• home address,
• phone number,
• photograph,
• where you work or go to school (if it is someone within Japan).

2. If people cannot find you, they cannot hurt you, stalk you, or annoy you with phone calls.

Web Friendships

1. Actually meeting a person you know only from the Internet can be dangerous.

2. It is easy to lie about who you are on the Internet, so you do not know if the person you will meet is who he/she says he/she is.

3. If you do meet someone, go with friends, and meet in daylight in a place with lots of people around.