Cyberbullying is a major hazard on the Internet. According to Wiredsafety.org, 85% of kids say they have been bullied online, but only 5% say they would tell their parents about the abuse.

Kids no longer need muscles to bully and torment their peers. Some young people use Web sites, cell phones, instant messaging, chat rooms, blogs and other cyberspace options to harass, threaten and ridicule. What may start as a joke, once launched into cyberspace, can be very serious. The impact on the victim can be devastating and even tragic. The bully may have committed a crime, exposed their parents to liability and/or damaged their own prospects for college or a job.

There are many things parents and kids can do to reduce online risks. I have listed some resources, like StopCyberBullying, below that can help protect against cyberbullying and online predators, who are still out there looking to target young people.

Please also visit my MySpace page for updated tips or to ask me a question about Internet safety. I am confident we can make online experiences safer and more productive.

Remember - “Surf Safe, Surf Smart”!

Terry Goddard

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Terry Goddard Encourages Kids to Take Megan Pledge to Stop Cyberbulling
The Megan Pledge Overview
The Megan Pledge
The Megan Pledge Ribbon Instructions
The Megan Meier Foundation

Internet Acronym Guide
Internet Safety Guide
Internet Safety FAQ
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Internet Safety Video (en Español)