Stay Yourself, Even Online

It's tempting to pretend to be older or someone else online. But that's not safe and not honest. AI works better when you tell the truth about yourself, and grown-ups can help keep you safe when they know who you are.

Some examples

• Don't lie about your age to AI apps.
• Don't pretend to be someone else online.
• Use only apps for kids your age.
• Be proud of who you are.

Try it!

Say something about yourself you're proud of. Real-you is the best-you!

Why Honesty About Who You Are Keeps You Safer Online

It's tempting to use AI apps to pretend to be someone different — older, cooler, someone from a different place. But pretending online creates two problems. First, it's not honest. Second, it makes it harder for trusted adults to help keep you safe, because they won't know who you actually are or what you're doing online. AI tools work better when you're honest about your age and what you need — apps designed for kids may give you different, more appropriate responses than apps designed for adults. Being your genuine self online is also safer: if you've told the truth, your online activity matches what your family knows about you, and adults can more easily notice if something seems wrong. You don't need to be older or cooler to use technology well. Being exactly your age is just right.

• Being honest about your age helps AI apps respond appropriately for your age group
• Pretending to be someone else makes it harder for trusted adults to protect you online
• Your real self is the right person to bring to online spaces — no upgrade needed
• If your online activity matches what your family knows, adults can more easily spot problems