Unless you know someone in real life, and no matter how long you've been chatting online, they are still strangers. The internet is an amazing place to find information on just about everything. But, anyone who goes online should understand some basic safety guidelines:
Never share log on id's or passwords with strangers, not even your friends. The only people you should share this information with are your parents.
Don't share personal information in your screen names such as: your address, birthday, hobbies, hometown or school.
Don't exchange personal information, about yourself or someone else, in an email or chat.
Don't share photos of yourself, your family, or your home with people you meet online.
Never open e-mail that come from unknown sources - DELETE them.
If you receive mean or threatening comments online, don't respond. Log off and report the activity to your parents.
Nothing you write on the Web is completely private. Be careful what you write and to whom.
Never make plans to meet an online "friend" in person.
WHEN IN DOUBT: Always ask your parents for help. If you're not sure, log off.
