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What everyday activity could be putting you into danger if you're not very careful about what you're doing? Avoiding it isn't the answer because this activity-using the Internet-is pretty much essential to modern life. But you can learn to keep yourself safe. Sarah Mosunic of the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department (LGMSPD) will address this critically important issue and provide vital information about protecting yourself at the Friends of the Library annual meeting on May 26, 6:30 to 8 p.m., in the Los Gatos Town Council Chambers.

Sarah says, "I have been involved in many Internet safety cases locally. We have had cases with tragic results, incredible financial loss, and some that have resulted in severe character damage-all preventable. This forum will be an opportunity for us to have a conversation about trends we see locally, new ways criminals are getting your information, and what to do if you are victimized. Everyone is vulnerable and needs to take steps to protect themselves online."

She points out that there are generational differences with regard to digital safety. "I'm a part of the generation that developed current technology and depends on it, almost instinctively, yet recognizes the dangers this presents. I really do fall in the middle," she says. "For example, my 90-year-old grandparents have very little exposure to the Internet. My mother, who is in her mid-60s, can type and navigate a computer with moderate skill, but hasn't progressed or improved her skills. My kids are completely dependent on technology and knew how to swipe an iPhone literally before they were potty-trained! They are assigned Chromebooks at school and use YouTube on their devices in class.

"By definition, these generational differences cause vulnerabilities online. My grandparents cannot understand the vastness of the personal information that is widely available on the Internet, and therefore are vulnerable to targeted scams. My mother is cautious enough to not be targeted by predators, but is not cautious enough to take steps towards personal protection while shopping online or understanding how to limit sharing personal information on social media. My kids confuse reality and virtual reality and have to be constantly reminded and protected. As we say, the term 'stranger danger' is nearly invalidated as this age group invites the stranger in by oversharing and being easily located, contacted, manipulated, and coached to danger willingly because the quest to gain more 'likes' or 'friends' is socially desirable."

Sarah is in her 15th year working as a civilian in law enforcement and has been with the Town of Los Gatos for about four years. For 11 years, she worked as an emergency dispatcher, and explains, "I always knew that I wanted to work in law enforcement in some capacity, but really had no desire to be a sworn officer. My initial goal was to go into forensic pathology, but I stumbled into dispatch and loved it."

After developing skill and expertise in investigative databases and procedure, she was assigned to the LGMSPD Detective Bureau. After several years there, she transitioned to the Administrative Division to work directly in support of Command Staff and just recently was promoted to Records Manager. Her promotion will be effective on May 9. In addition to managing the Records Unit, her duties include compiling statistical information, crime analysis, and being the administrator for internal and external law enforcement databases and communications platforms, which include Nextdoor, Nixle, and the department's mobile app. She reports directly to Captain Michael; D'Antonio and Chief Matt Frisby.

"I love the nature of my job and how it fits my personality," says Sarah. My day is fast-paced and high stress, evolves minute by minute, and allows me to be surrounded and supported by like-minded people. Law enforcement folks have this switch that we can flip in an instant. We all go from zero to 60 mph instantaneously, and we all have this innate ability to solve problems and seek justice. No other field would offer me the satisfaction of this career."

Sarah, who grew up in the Bay Area, lives in Morgan Hill with her husband, who is also in law enforcement, and their three sons, ages 17, 9 and 6. (This June, the oldest will graduate from high school, and the youngest will graduate from kindergarten!)

Join Sarah and the Friends on May 26 for an enlightening evening you won't want to miss.