Be your own person. Don't let friends or strangers pressure you to be someone you aren't. And know your limits.
You may be Net-savvy, but people and relationships change, and unexpected stuff can happen on the Internet.
Be nice online.
Or at least treat people the way you'd want to be treated. People who
are nasty and aggressive online are at greater risk of being bullied or
harassed themselves. It's a vicious cycle you really don't want to get
into.
Think about what you post.
Sharing provocative photos or intimate details online, even in private
emails, can cause you problems later on. Even people you consider
friends can use this info against you, especially if they become
ex-friends.
Read between the "lines."
It may be fun to check out new people for friendship or romance, but be
aware that, while some people are nice, others act nice because they
are trying to get something. Flattering or supportive messages may be
more about manipulation than friendship or romance.
Don't talk about sex with strangers.
Be cautious when communicating with people you don't know in person,
especially if the conversation starts to be about sex or physical
details. Don't lead them on - you don't want to be the target of a
predator's grooming. If they persist, call your local police or contact
CyberTipline.com.
Avoid in-person meetings.
The only way someone can physically harm you is if you're both in the
same location, so - to be 100% safe - don't meet them in person. If you
really have to get together with someone you "met" online, don't go
alone. Have the meeting in a public place, tell a parent or some other
solid backup, and bring some friends along.
Be smart when using a cell phone.
All the same tips apply with phones as with computers. Except phones
are with you wherever you are, often away from home and your usual
support systems. Be careful who you give your number to and how you use
GPS and other technologies that can pinpoint your physical location.
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