Published: Monday, 8th February, 2010 12:00pm

Youngsters must beware of their on-line 'friends'

by Rose Harland

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YOUNG people are being warned to be careful about what personal information they put on the internet.

European Safer Internet Day will be marked on Tuesday and youth advice service Connexions Berkshire - which has branches in Bracknell and Wokingham - is urging youngsters not to make themselves vulnerable to bullying or predatory grooming online.

Alexis Smith, team leader at the Wokingham Connexions centre, said: "Many young people have profiles on social networking sites or play online games. Belonging to an online community can be lots of fun and a great place for young people to share their interests and communicate with friends. However, as in the real world, it is important that they take care of themselves and their friends.

"The theme of this year's Safer Internet Day is 'Think B4 U Post' so we're keen to encourage young people to be careful about the type of information they post about themselves and who they allow to see it."

Connexions says that many young people do not realise that the photos and comments they post can stay on the internet for years and may be seen by parents, employers or complete strangers.

Photos can also be cut, pasted or altered in ways that can be embarrassing or lead to bullying.

The service recommends using high privacy settings on social networking sites, not giving out personal details and being careful who is added as an online 'friend'.

Information on online safety and Safer Internet Day can be found at www.thinkuknow.co.uk with help for parents at www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents Online abuse, including being sent sexual or inappropriate material, can be reported to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre via www.ceop.gov.uk

Teenagers aged 13-19 can get advice from Connexions about the internet and other topics including employment, money, housing, drugs and sexual health at www.connexions-berkshire.org.uk

Teenagers - and young people with learning difficulties aged up to 25 - can also get information and advice in person at centres run by Connexions, a publicly-funded charity.

Bracknell Connexions Centre at 3A Charles Square in the town centre is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

Call 0845 408 5008 or bracknell@connexions-berkshire.org.uk

Wokingham Connexions Centre at Anvil Court, 52 Denmark Street in the town centre is open 12.30-5pm Monday to Friday.

Call 0845 408 5014 or email wokingham@connexions-berkshire.org.uk