Internet Safety

Wireless and mobile device courtesy

With new wireless capabilities and advanced mobile devices like the iPad and smartphones, we can communicate and access media almost anywhere and anytime. However, these new technologies are also becoming increasingly intrusive and can sometimes contribute to troublesome behavior. Disruptive ringtones, noisy conversations and rude texting can disrupt, annoy and anger others, leading to what is now being called Cell Phone Rage. In order to avoid provoking others, consider these guidelines. 

• When places like hospitals and airplanes restrict or prohibit the use of mobile devices, follow the rules. These rules usually exist due to disruption problems or safety issues, and your cooperation is needed.
• When you are in a meeting, movie theater, church or similar setting, set your mobile device to silent or vibrate in order to avoid rude disruptions. Texting or using a device in these circumstances is also considered rude, especially in a dark theater where the phone's backlight will be visible. If you absolutely must take a call or text, excuse yourself and go outside.
• You should also avoid engaging in emotional or angry conversations in public, as these can be quite unsettling for those around you.
• When using speaker or video conferencing functions, you should always let the person know when you are not conversing in a private space, so they will not say anything inappropriate or confidential.
• Do not discuss or display sensitive information, like your address, bank account, or Social Security number, while in public. You never know who may be listening.
• You can call 911 from cell phones and help others by reporting crimes or emergencies. However, you should be careful of those who want to borrow your phone. They may run off with it or call a number that will charge your account a high fee. To be safe, simply offer to dial the number for them.
• Always ask permission before shooting a photo or video of someone with your device's camera functions.
• When streaming music or video from mobile devices, be discreet. Keep volume low or use earphones, especially with music that contains explicit lyrics. Do not display inappropriate, disturbing or R-rated video where it can be seen or heard by others, especially children.