Whether you’re a teenager, a college student, a parent or even a grandparent, it seems that almost everyone now uses Facebook, the hugely popular social networking website.

And while the majority of time spent on the site is free from any problems or trouble, sometimes young people can get themselves into difficulty.

However, here, Webwise lays out some of the Dos and Don’ts which will help keep kids away from danger online.

The Dos

• Do think carefully about how you present yourself when choosing a profile image. Your online reputation is important. Think also about the language you use even if used jokingly - what you say and do online will lay down your digital footprint


• Do know who can access your personal information. Many sites allow you to decide which parts of your profile can be accessed by others. Assume that everything is public. Opting for private doesn’t always mean that only your friends can see your profile


• Do trust your instincts. If something doesn’t look or feel right, it probably isn’t. If you find something online that you don't like, turn off the computer and tell an adult


• Do be careful with your personal information. As soon as posts go online, you have lost control over who will see it and how it will be used. Pictures can easily be copied and shared, altered or distorted by thousands of others at the click of a button. Don’t post pictures you wouldn’t want everyone you know to see, including parents and teachers


• Do be careful with the personal information of others. Don't tag others in photos without their permission. Don't share their personal details and information with the world. They have a right to privacy and you have a responsibility to protect it

The Don'ts

• Don’t assume everyone you meet online is who they claim to be. Information provided by users when they are registering is not checked. Anyone can create a fake profile


• Don’t post information that could be used to find you offline. Be careful of posting photos with things like car registration plates or identifiable landmarks. Don’t post messages about your daily routine. There are people out there who will piece together information about you


• Don’t reply to abusive or upsetting messages. This is exactly what cyberbullies want. They want to know they've got to you and that you are worried and upset. They want to think that they are important by being able to get a reaction from you. Don't give them that satisfaction. Stay in control

Below is a further worthwhile resource. It’s a guide to Facebook put together by ConnectSafely.org and it’s aimed specifically at parents.