Contract for Safe and Responsible Use of the Internet

Many families have used a "contract" between parents and children in an effort to promote safe and responsible use of the Internet. The purpose of the contract is to ensure that children understand what is expected of them when using the Internet, so that there'll be no confusion or ambiguity with safe and responsible online use.

It is suggested that parents re-create and print out a copy of the following "Contract for Safe and Responsible Use of the Internet." (Information may be found at the end of the book on how you can receive a free copy of the contract in the mail, or by e-mail)

Once you print out your copy of the contract, have everyone in the family sign it. (printable version available here)

The Contract:
As a member of this family, I realize that access to the Internet is a privilege, and it is up to me to make safe and responsible choices while using the Internet. I realize that the consequences of not practicing safe and responsible use of the Internet can be serious and any bad choices made while online may be dangerous for me and cause me trouble.

Therefore, I promise:

To never reveal any personal information about myself online. This includes my real name, address, telephone number, name or location of my school, name of any of my family members or friends, or any other personal information. If I feel the need to reveal or provide any personal information while online, I will first consult with my parents or teachers.

To never upload or send my picture to anyone online who I don't know in real life, without notifying my parents. I will first check with my parents if I want to send my picture through the Internet to anyone and will tell the other person that my parents know I am sending them a picture.

To understand that everything I see and everyone I meet online may not be telling the truth. I will always be careful to consider all possibilities of the information I receive while being online.
To notify my parents or teachers if I come across anything online that makes me feel uncomfortable. Online information that may make me feel uncomfortable includes inappropriate Web sites that I may have come across accidentally, correspondence with someone who seems to be making me talk about things I do not want to, or anything else confusing or scary.

Never to meet face-to-face with anyone I've met online without first asking my parents. I also agree not to contact anyone I meet online by telephone without first notifying my parents.

Not to sign up for anything online without first asking my parents or teachers. This includes revealing my name or e-mail address to my favorite Web sites, or ordering/purchasing anything online without my parents' permission.

To follow all rules agreed to about being online. This includes the time of day, length of time and reasons for using the Internet. Using the Internet is a privilege that I have earned, and one that I must respect.

Signed ___________________________________
(child)

Signed ___________________________________
(child)

Signed ___________________________________
(parent)

Signed ___________________________________
(parent)