Netiquette - a guide to using the Internet

To ensure that Internet use is as pleasant and useful as possible for everyone, Internet users should follow netiquette, or network etiquette guidelines. The netiquette below was produced in extensive co-operation between Internet service providers, organisations and various service and content providers operating in the field. In addition to netiquette, make sure that the technical information security of your computer is in order.

Things to consider about using e-mail

When used appropriately, e-mail is an efficient and effective means of communication. Include in an e-mail only things that you would say to a person face to face. It is also not recommended to send jokes and inappropriate messages to people you do not know personally.

Do not load the recipient's inbox by forwarding circular and chain letters.

Be cautious and careful when sending program files or other attachment files.

Before sending messages with attached files, consider carefully whether the attachments really are necessary.

E-mail messages may spread malware that block e-mail systems. Therefore, you should always be on you guard and consider carefully which messages to open. If the subject of the message or a file attached to it seems suspicious, think twice about opening the message.

The Internet is an open network. If your e-mail is not separately protected, a third party may be able to view the content of your message. Therefore, it is not advisable to send secret information in an unencrypted message.

At work, follow possible instructions and agreements on how to use the web for personal communication.

Things to consider about online communication

If you participate in online discussions, make your contributions appropriate and do not disturb or insult others. Make sure your message is relevant to the topic of the discussion group.

People who disturb or insult others may be tracked down later, even if the discussion is anonymous. In problem or abuse situations, contact the website administrator. The administrator has a right to remove any harmful and inappropriate messages.

Using or trying to use someone else's identification unauthorised is forbidden. Use a nickname or participate anonymously in services where it is standard practice.

Do not be fooled

On the Internet, anyone can be anyone. Keep that in mind when you arrange meetings or do business online.

If you leave your computer for a while, use a password-protected screensaver so that no one can send e-mail or access the network in your name.

When you use the Internet on a shared computer make sure your personal information does not get into the hands of other users.

Use your credit card online only through a secure connection (a padlock icon appears in the browser address bar and the website address begins with https://). Never send credit card information through e-mail.

Keep all your identifications and passwords safe, such as usernames and passwords needed for online banking and e-mail. Never reveal your passwords in online discussions and chats or include them in e-mail messages.

Know what you commit to

The Internet offers various services for which you have to register and agreements to which you have to commit. Read instructions carefully and ensure that you understand them before making any commitments. Never click on the 'Yes' button or agree to something unless you are certain about the consequences of your reply.

If a service asks for your personal information, find out what the information is needed for and what the handling of your information may finally lead to. Consider carefully what personal information you give.

Internet has a long memory

Everything you publish or write on websites or in e-mails may be on the Internet for years to come, whether you like it or not.

Remember source criticism

Anyone can create websites because there is no threshold for publishing material on the Internet. All published material is not checked, and everything published on a website is not necessarily true. If an offer or a service sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.

Especially suspicious are advertisement letters sent via e-mail. The offers and products presented in the letters may even be illegal in Finland or harmful to the user.

Copyrights are valid also on the Internet

If you use material that is on the Internet, make sure you have permission to do so.

Copyright fees need to be paid to, for instance, makers of music, pictures, movies and software also when the material is obtained from the Internet.

The Internet is an open network where information is available to everyone. Make sure material you publish online is appropriately protected.

Tips for parents

For many children, the Internet is an important and useful tool for, for example, keeping in touch with friends. Discuss Internet use and the related rights and responsibilities with your child. Be aware of your child's daily life and friends on the Internet.

Children may publish personal information on the Internet without realising that anyone can access it. This can be a security risk and may even lead to disturbance and harassment.