A new website promoting cyber ethics among youngsters has been launched, aiming to protect them from potential online threats.

The website on Cyber Ethics for Students & Youth has been produced by several Government departments including the Police, the Education & Manpower Bureau, the Television & Entertainment Licensing Authority and other non-governmental organisations.

It provides information and guidance on ethics in using the Internet, and has been developed due to the widespread use of communications and IT by youngsters.

Youths are becoming more exposed to potential hazards and illegal activities on the Internet, including copyright infringement, obscene and indecent articles, viruses, hoax messages and hacking.

An ad hoc committee on the website was set up last year, which included parents and teachers, Internet service providers, psychologists and social workers, along with Government officials.

It conducted an online survey from October to December to gauge youngsters' online habits and behaviour. Some 2,500 replies were received from primary and secondary school students on their online activities like games, chatting, disclosure of personal information, attitude towards intellectual property rights and hacking.

Findings from the survey formed the basis for website which addresses four important issues, namely legislation, ethics, psychology and IT security.