It's almost back to school and time to see all your friends and frenemies. This time of year is full of anxiety for most kids because there is nothing worse than going to school and being made fun of, picked on or the topic of juicy gossip. While you can't control what people say about you, you can do things to avoid beind the brunt of hurtful comments about your looks. While many of these tips may seem obvious, I'll bet you have posted things about yourself that could make you an easy target.
Don't post bathing suit or lingerie pictures
No matter how hot your body is, you will get the wrong attention by posting those bikini shots. Obviously, you are doing it to get compliments and so guys will think you are hot. But, don't be surprised if people post mean or inappropriate comments objectifying you and even calling you names.
Don't email or text naked pictures of yourself
How many celebs have had their private pictures exposed? Remember, everything can be forwarded and no one can be trusted, not even your best friend.
Once it's out there, you can't take it back
Just because you are sitting in your home in front of your computer, does not mean you have privacy. If you make a video and post it to YouTube, it's out there in cyberspace forever. When you post to YouTube all sorts of strangers can see it and you can open yourself up to some pretty creepy comments.
10 second rule
Before you send a picture, text or email, wait 10 seconds. Ask yourself how you would feel it all your friends read it or saw the picture. If you are okay with it, then send it.
Do not post EVERYTHING you do on your FB status
If you post too much information, be ready for lots of comments. There is no tone in your FB status so be careful not to make jokes that no one gets and could get you into trouble.
Avoid group texting
Group texts often lead to hurt feelings. One person misreads what another has said and before you know it everyone is mad at each other. My son had this happen when a stranger got involved in a group text and the three friends ended up in an argument for a week.