Web Safety

The Internet is an amazing resource. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that exist on the Web. Because the Web mirrors the real world, it contains electronic versions of real-life problems. Stalking and harassment are two such problems that can occur on the Web - a practice known as "cyberstalking." In addition to cyberstalking, one can get into trouble in other ways on the Web. The following information is designed to raise awareness of how posting any information on the Internet can affect all aspects of your life.

Safeguarding information on your personal Web page

  • If possible, avoid putting your phone number on your Web page.
    • Anyone can access your Web page once it is published online - therfore, anyone can call you.
  • Unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid putting your physical address on your Web page.
    • Consider getting a Post Office (P.O.) box if you must publish your address online.
    • Publishing your physical address online allows potential stalkers easy access to you.
  • If possible, avoid publising your school/employment information.
  • Consider setting up a separate email account for use only with your Web page.
  • Be cautious when posting information - especially controversial information - on your Web page.
    • Controversial posts may cause someone to try to retaliate against you.
  • Do not add links to schools or stores in your area if you don't want people to know where you live.
  • Use discretion when posting photos on your Web page.
    • Avoid posting photos that exhibit inappropriate/lewd behavior.

How your Website affects you

While posting items on your personal Web page can help you, it can also harm you. Due to the easy access of information through the Internet, virtually any Web page can be accessed by anyone. For this reason, it is important to realize that your actions/posts on your personal Web page can affect your life in many ways. Posting inappropriate or inflammatory material on your Web page could result in any of the following: 1) trouble at school; 2) legal trouble; 3) loss of job; 4) trouble with the media; and 5) the possibility of other unwanted, negative attention. Any information you post on the Internet could also be used maliciously by cyberstalkers.

If you feel you are being cyberstalked

  • If you are under 18 - immediately speak to your parents or an adult you can trust about the situation.
  • If your email program has filtering capabilities, use them to block or filter unwanted email.
  • Inform your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or Domain Administrator of the situation and, if necessary, request a new log-on name and password.
    • As a Peabody student, you may contact Jonathan Richardson, Director of Information Technology (IT) at
  • Document/log all communications from the stalker/harasser. Make copies of every email/message, and do not alter them in any way. This may be your only evidence.
  • Ignore the stalker/harasser - confronting him/her could potentially arouse anger, resulting in more attacks.
  • If the harassment does not stop, contact Peabody IT and Campus Security.
  • Call the FBI Computer Crimes unit in your area ONLY if you have received a direct death threat or threat of physical harm.

Peabody Resources

  • IT Help Desk - Phone: 410-234-4660 | Email:
  • Campus Security - Non-emergency Phone: 410-234-4605 | Emergency Phone: 410-234-4600

Web Resources

 

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