Google paid a visit to PFC Robert P. Hernandez Middle School Oct. 9 to provide a tutorial about Internet safety, including tips on making strong passwords, controlling privacy settings and avoiding online scams.

Representatives from Google provided students five key tips for being safe on the Internet, as part of its Good to Know School Roadshow initiative, an interactive 45-minute presentation designed for middle school students.

Google spokeswoman Jamie Hill said the Good to Know Roadshow presentation was designed specifically for middle school students because at this age, many of them may receive their first cellphones and begin to be exposed to social media. Google's Internet safety tips are an effort to provide best practices as students begin to engage more with social media and technology, Hill said.

Hernandez, located at 1901 Sunrise Road, was the sole school in Round Rock chosen to receive Google's presentation, per the recommendation of State Rep. Larry Gonzales, R-Round Rock, who said he facilitates many classroom initiatives concerning technology. Google asked Gonzales for a recommendation of one middle school in the district to receive the presentation and Gonzales said he chose Hernandez because of his relationships with administration.

"I do feel that our kids are safer today than they were yesterday because of this presentation," said Hernandez middle school principal Mario Acosta.

Google also visited Covington Middle School in Austin ISD to give the presentation. Parents and students can get information about Google's Internet safety tips by visiting the website, www.google.com/safetycenter. The five safety tips are,

• Think before you share—Anything someone shares on the Internet has the ability to be shared, copied and forwarded to someone else. Make sure not to post anything that you would not want everyone to see.
• Protect your stuff—Set strong passwords and do not share them with anyone. Strong passwords generally are eight or more characters and include a combination of letters and numbers.
• Know and use your settings—Utilize privacy settings on social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter.
• Avoid scams—Be suspicious of any posts, emails or messages that do not seem legitimate. For example, if someone receives a message from a friend that includes hyperlinks to unknown websites, it could be spam and the link should not be clicked on.
• Be positive—This tip follows the "treat others the way you would want to be treated" philosophy. Be kind to others online and report offensive activity.