History Main / InternetSafetyAesop

# Be judicious in what you post online. Assume that nothing can ever be ''really'' deleted from the Internet. Assume that if you go to too much trouble to delete something embarrassing, [[StreisandEffect people will be more interested in it]]. Remember that what you say on the Internet has consequences -- jobs and livelihoods have been lost from things posted on the Internet. Remember that what you post affects others, too -- you could harm others just like you could harm yourself.
# Learn to establish your boundaries and really evaluate the relationship you have with someone before following or adding them online. Don't assume your friendship with someone lasts forever and pay attention if they treat you the same way you would treat them, relationships can erode over time or become one-sided without anyone realizing. If you don't feel comfortable with what a person is posting or feel like you're not part of the intended audience[[note]] For example, an old classmate may post pictures of their children with the intention of showing their family, not realizing the danger of posting these pictures and stories to strangers and friends they are no longer in contact with [[/note]] then you should consider removing them from your list of friends and followers. Similarly, if you are friends with a coworker online or friends with your boss online, you should ask yourself if this is within a professional relationship or ask yourself if you feel comfortable with them seeing what you post online.
# When talking to someone online, you should learn to be clear and firm with your messages. Don't leave any mixed messages or leave anything for interpretation because people might misinterpret your message, upset you without realizing it, or be aggravated by it. The silent treatment only really works when the person you're talking to actually knows what they did wrong or can actually see your face, if they receive it online then they might not understand why they are receiving the silent treatment or they might not pick up on it under the belief you didn't see their messages. Remember, how you present yourself online is how people are going to perceive you as a first impression.

[[folder:Comic Strips]]
* ''ComicStrip/{{Dilbert}}'': In one strip, Dilbert pulls an all-nighter trying to work out a problem he's brought home from work and which the PointyHairedBoss is pressing him to resolve. Finally, Dilbert arrives at a solution, and he immediately emails the PHB with the update but does not choose his words carefully enough. [[SnarkKnight Dogbert]] immediately informs him he has also hit "Send All" on the email.
-->Hi. it's two in the morning, I'm sitting here in my underwear, and I thought of you.
[[/folder]]

As with most works that seek to impart AnAesop, there are two ways to go about it: either by teaching the audience directly or by showing a [[ScareEmStraight cautionary tale]]. Since the Internet is notorious for rapidly emerging popular things, it often doubles as a TrendAesop, as everyone rushes to do some new online thing (look, I discovered Website/TikTok!) and neglects Internet safety in their enthusiasm.

* ''LetsPlay/JackSepticEye'' discussed this after seeing videos of people embarrassing themselves in an attempt to achieve Internet stardom. He tells his audience that Internet fame isn't worth it, and you don't want to be remembered for doing something so stupid or offensive.

# Do note that [=VPNs=] aren't cure-all solution. Websites can still track your activities with cookies & fingerprinting, you can still end up downloading malware, anything you post & upload is still available on the website's server and is either publicly searchable or might eventually leak in a hack later. Some sites are also wary of VPN users because they're popular with spammers and carders, especially financial and e-commerce sites. Check their term of service and user forums about their official & practical policy on new and old accounts using VPNs.