Common Questions and Answers

1.Is it safe to use chatrooms?
2.I'm smart enough to make sure it wouldn't happen to me?
3.What should I do if I see or read something I don't like?
4.How will I know if the person I am chatting to is genuine?
5.Is it ever ok to meet someone ?

Is it safe to use chatrooms?
As long as you use common sense and use the internet safely you should not be at risk. Remember, don't give out any information that can identify you and don't believe everything you read.

I'm smart, it wouldn't happen to me?
The people who abuse chatrooms can be quite convincing, tricking adults as well as teenagers. Without seeing a person we can never be sure they are what they say they are. This is why you should never arrange to meet someone you have chatted to on the internet without telling your parents, getting their permission and taking a responsible adult with you. Even then, your first meeting should always be in a public place.

What should I do if I see something I don't like?
Chatrooms Tell someone. An adult parent, teacher or carer, anyone that you trust. You won't get into trouble and more importantly you'll stay safe.

How will I know if the person is genuine?
You will never know how genuine a person is being because you cant see them while in a chatroom. Its important to pay attention to what they are telling you. Ask yourself does what they are saying sound reasonable ? Are they avoiding your questions ? Do they sound like someone your age ? Even then you can never be sure.

Is it ever OK to meet someone ?
At some point you may want to meet up with someone who you have only ever met online. Before you do meet up STOP and THINK...

1. Online friends are still strangers.

2. Children and teenagers should NEVER meet an online friend alone.

3. Adults should ALWAYS meet the person in a public place and ALWAYS tell someone where they are going and when they will be back. If in doubt, take a friend with you.

4. If you have a mobile phone with you, make sure it is charged up and that you have a selection of emergency numbers programmed into the phone.

Meetings with new online friends can be highly rewarding but it's worth taking the time to STOP and THINK before you go. Prepare your meeting in advance and make sure you follow the safety steps before going out.