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• The Internet and You:

What websites are reliable?

Not all websites give out correct information. Do an online search for something and you’ll get lots of results, but how do you know hich websites can be relied upon?

The answer is NO! Being able to tell if something on the Internet is true or real is tough for adults and even harder for teens. Some of what’s out there is good information, but some of it is just plain wrong. Everyone must first question the source. So, how can you tell what information is okay and what isn’t okay?

Here are some general tips on how to tell if the web site and information is reliable:

• Web sites that end in .gov are generally reliable because they are connected with the government.
• Look for the name of the organisation, the author of the web site, and when the information was updated. Reliable web sites often have a list of references or contacts so you can find out where the information came from.
• If you’re looking for facts, check out a few different web sites to compare information. If you’re in doubt, double check the facts at your local library. This way you will know which web sites give you correct information.
• Ask your teachers about reliable web sites to go to for homework help. Once you find a reliable web site, you can bookmark it so you can easily find it later.
• Ask your doctor or school nurse about web sites to go to for reliable health information. When you get a recommendation from a professional, it most likely will be a web site with information you can trust.

• Reliable web sites usually have reliable links – so when you get lucky and find a great web site, you may get to know other good sites too.

Frankandhonest.com is brought to you by ASK Education & Training Ltd. We provide training for young people and organisations working with young people. This site was created in response to countless requests from young people for a place to get answers.