Information » Sport & Leisure » Digital Arts » Computers and the Internet
- Computers come in many different forms and can be used for a variety of functions
- The most common functions are word processing, spreadsheets, databases, games, playing and creating music and for access to the internet
- You may find it useful to use a computer to create and store school work or a project you are working on
- Many people will use some sort of computer for their jobs
- Most people learn to use a computer at school, but there are courses you can do if you would like to learn more - see the links below for more information
The internet
- Internet access is one of the most common uses for personal computers
- People use the internet for a variety of functions including:
- Finding out information on any subject
- Learning
- Getting up to date with the news
- Making business
- Buying and selling goods
- Meeting people and 'chatting'
- Talking to people
- Tracking family and friends
- Internet access is free in most libraries across Wales
Chatrooms
- Chatrooms are a great way to share interests and opinions with people but be aware that anything you type into a chatroom or message board can be seen by anyone who is logged in and looking at the webpage
- The best way to use a chatroom is to choose one which is moderated. This means there is a moderator who will monitor what is being talked about and issue warnings if someone says something inappropriate or abusive
- Moderators can also ban people from certain chatrooms
Chatroom Risks
- Chatting to people over the internet can be good fun but you must be aware that you never really know who you are communicating with
- Some people can lie and pretend to be someone they are not so it is important to stay safe
- Keeping safe when you're online is simple
- don't give away any personal or financial details including your age, phone number, bank account, home address
- don't say which school or university you go to
- don't send any pictures of yourself across the internet
- don't believe everything people tell you
- If someone asks you to meet up with them, it's much safer to meet them in the chatroom
- If you do decide to meet up with them, always make sure you decide on a public space and take a friend with you, no matter how old you are
- If you are under 16, it is best to take an adult with you for your own safety
Shopping over the internet
- Buying goods over the internet is a quick way of shopping - you can search for the item you want and make a payment online
- Using a debit and credit card to pay for goods carries a risk as other web users can tap into the page and retrieve your card details
- When shopping online, ensure you only use secure sites. Look out for a padlock logo at the bottom of your screen
- The padlock logo means your information you are sending over the internet cannot be seen by other web users
- If you purchase goods online using your credit or debit card you have the same rights as if you bought them in a shop - see the Office of Fair Trading's website for more information
