You have a new screen name! This screen name was assigned the 18+ category, which means you have unrestricted access to all AOL areas and Web sites.
AOL wants you to have safe and rewarding experiences online. So before you explore online, please take a few minutes to review a few important account safety tips. It's a good idea to print this letter for future reference (from the File menu, select Print).
Use common sense when communicating with strangers online. When you communicate with other AOL members in chat rooms, Message Boards, and the Member Director, other members can see your screen name. Members who know your screen name can then send you Instant Message Notes and e-mail. This is a great way to make new friends online, but you should also use your common sense. Think of AOL as a large city -- just as you would be cautious when speaking to strangers on the street, you should be just as cautious when talking to new people online.
NEVER, EVER give your password to anyone. The AOL staff will never ask you for your password. Anyone who knows your password can sign on to your AOL account, pose as you in chat rooms, send e-mail in your name, or shop online leaving you with the bill. So keep your password a secret.
*If you have already given your password to someone, go to Keyword: Password to change your password immediately. Tip: The most secure passwords are a combination of letters and numbers that cannot be easily guessed.
Never download a file attached to an e-mail if you don't know the sender. Attached files can contain viruses or hidden programs (called "Trojan Horse" programs) that may compromise the security of your AOL account or damage your computer files. No matter how enticing the file may appear, you put yourself and your computer at risk when you download a file from an unknown source, even if it appears to be an official AOL communication.
If you receive a suspicious file, don't open it - Notify AOL: 1. Click on the Forward button on the open Mail window. 2. Type the screen name TOSFiles in the TO: box. 3. Click Send. Your mail will be forward to AOL for review.
Notify AOL if you encounter inappropriate behavior online. Appropriate online conduct is critical to making the AOL community safe and enjoyable for all members. If you encounter inappropriate behavior or offensive material -- whether in chat, e-mail, message boards or Instant Message Notes, report it to AOL through Keyword: Notify AOL.
We hope you enjoy your time on AOL. To get up to speed quickly on all that AOL has to offer, go to Keyword: New To AOL. In a few minutes you'll be exploring AOL like a pro! If you ever have a question about how to use AOL, just go to Keyword: Help.